In a surprising turn of events at the Kishore Bharati Stadium, the CISF Protectors secured their first win in the 133rd Durand Cup, defeating the Indian Super League Cup winner, Mumbai City FC, by a score of 2-0. Santosh Kumar put the paramilitary outfit ahead early on, capitalizing on a precise cross from Bebeto to find the back of the net. Sahil Kumar extended the lead deep into injury time during the second half, solidifying the CISF’s victory against Mumbai City, who fielded their reserve team.
Meanwhile, in a captivating Group F encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, former ISL league shield winner FC Goa emerged victorious against the local side Rangdajied United FC, winning by a narrow margin of 4-3. Rangdajied United, an I-League 3 team drafted in after the ISL side Hyderabad FC withdrew at the last minute, took an early lead in the 19th minute with an opportunistic goal from Owanijuh Pajuh.
Goa, primarily utilizing reserve team players, responded strongly after the break. Captain Leander D’Cunha equalized from a 48th-minute penalty, converting on his second attempt. Ten minutes later, Devendra Murgaokar put Goa ahead with a fine strike. However, the home side quickly restored parity with Pynbhalang Suting scoring in the 61st minute. Lalthangliana regained the lead for Goa with a second penalty in the 79th minute, only to see Apborlang Kurbah equalize again with a spectacular finish in the 85th minute. Just when the match seemed destined for a draw, Vellington Fernendes struck the decisive goal in the final minute of injury time, securing a thrilling victory for Goa. This win propelled Goa alongside the other local side, Shillong Lajong FC, to the top of the league standings with three points each.
Match Results:
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Group C (Kolkata):
Mumbai City FC 0 lost to CISF Protectors 2 (Santosh Kumar 3, Sahil Kumar 90+6)*
