Can U Mumba Overcome Dempo Goa Challengers to Reach the Final?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling showdown, U Mumba TT defied the odds to defeat the reigning Dempo Goa Challengers, securing their inaugural spot in the UTT Grand Finale. With a comeback victory of 8-7, U Mumba's Yashaswini Ghorpade emerged as a key player, showcasing resilience and skill. The upcoming final promises to be an electrifying encounter.
Key Takeaways
- U Mumba made a remarkable comeback from a 4-7 deficit.
- Yashaswini Ghorpade was instrumental in clinching the victory.
- The final score was 8-7, marking U Mumba’s first entry into the Grand Finale.
- The match showcased the competitiveness of Indian table tennis.
- Tickets for the matches are available on BookMyShow.
Ahmedabad, June 14 (NationPress) U Mumba TT executed a remarkable comeback, defeating the defending champions Dempo Goa Challengers in the second semi-final of Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) Season 6. After trailing 4-7, U Mumba clinched the last four games to secure an 8-7 triumph, earning their first-ever place in the Grand Finale.
With Goa just one game away from victory and U Mumba needing a clean sweep in the final rubber, Yashaswini Ghorpade stepped up, winning two consecutive games and ultimately sealing the decider 11–10 in a heart-stopping finish. U Mumba will now compete against the Jaipur Patriots on Sunday, June 15, ensuring a new champion will be crowned in the IndianOil UTT.
Organized under the auspices of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) and promoted by Niraj Bajaj and Vita Dani, IndianOil UTT is rapidly emerging as a top-tier professional league. All 23 matches will unfold over 16 thrilling days at Ahmedabad’s EKA Arena, with tickets exclusively available on BookMyShow.
Harmeet Desai provided a solid start for Dempo Goa Challengers, winning 3‑0 against Lilian Bardet, clinching the third game on a Golden Point after Bardet rallied from 2‑6 behind. However, U Mumba TT retaliated through Bernadette Szocs, who handed Zeng Jian her first defeat of the season, taking the first two games with sharp counterplay before Zeng salvaged the third game 11‑7.
In mixed doubles, U Mumba fought back as Akash Pal and Szocs overcame a 3‑6 deficit to win games one and three, concluding their rubber 2‑1. This victory reduced Goa’s lead to a narrow 5‑4 heading into the subsequent matches.
Vitor Ishiy nearly sealed the match for Dempo Goa Challengers, swiftly winning the first two games against Abhinandh PB with scores of 11-6 and 11-4. Yet, Abhinandh refused to let U Mumba’s hopes dwindle. Down 6-9 in the third game, he rallied with four straight points to snatch the game 11-9, keeping his team’s chances alive for the final match.
Yashaswini seized the moment, defeating Krittwika Sinha Roy in three closely contested games to propel U Mumba to their inaugural IndianOil UTT final. Her outstanding performance earned her both the Indian Player of the Tie and Shot of the Tie awards, while Szocs was awarded the Foreign Player of the Tie accolade.
Final scores:
U Mumba TT 8-7 Dempo Goa Challengers
Lilian Bardet lost to Harmeet Desai 0-3 (8-11, 4-11, 10-11)
Bernadette Szocs bt Zeng Jian 2-1 (11-5, 11-9, 7-11)
Akash Pal/Bernadette Szocs bt. Harmeet Desai/Zeng Jian 2-1 (11-8, 8-11, 11-9)
Abhinandh PB lost to Vitor Ishiy 1-2 (6-11, 4-11, 11-9)
Yashaswini Ghorpade bt Krittwika Sinha Roy 3-0 (11-9, 11-9, 11-10)
Point of View
This sensational victory by U Mumba TT is a testament to the evolving competitiveness of Indian table tennis. The match showcased not only individual brilliance but also the strategic depth of U Mumba’s play. With the finals approaching, all eyes will be on this fresh contender aiming to capture the championship title.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the semi-final match?
U Mumba TT defeated Dempo Goa Challengers with a final score of 8-7.
Who were the standout players in the match?
Yashaswini Ghorpade was a standout player for U Mumba, earning both the Indian Player of the Tie and Shot of the Tie awards.
When is the Grand Finale scheduled?
The Grand Finale is scheduled for Sunday, June 15.
Where is the IndianOil UTT being held?
The IndianOil UTT is being held at EKA Arena in Ahmedabad.
How can fans purchase tickets for the matches?
Fans can purchase tickets exclusively on BookMyShow.
