Namdhari FC continued their impressive run in the 134th Durand Cup with a 4-2 victory over the Indian Air Force Football Team at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK), moving to the top of Group A.
The match began with the Air Force taking an early lead in the 7th minute through midfielder Samuel K, who capitalised on a rebound after a cross from Saurav Sadhukhan. However, Namdhari FC responded strongly. Brazilian striker Cledson Dasilva converted a penalty in the 37th minute after defender Lamine Moro was brought down in the box, levelling the score.
Just before halftime, Namdhari seized the advantage. A long throw-in by Jaskaranpreet Singh was misjudged by the Air Force defence, allowing Amandeep Singh to find the net in the 45th minute, giving Namdhari a 2-1 lead at the break.
Namdhari maintained the momentum in the second half. In the 60th minute, Jaskaranpreet again delivered a dangerous cross from the left flank, which substitute Dharmpreet Singh finished confidently, extending the lead to 3-1.
Despite being reduced to 10 men after Manbir Singh was sent off in the 73rd minute for a reckless tackle, Namdhari struck again. Dasilva broke through the Air Force defence and set up substitute Seilenthang Lotjem, who fired home in the 74th minute to make it 4-1.
The Air Force pulled one back in the 78th minute when Sankit capitalised on a defensive lapse, finishing with the outside of his left foot. They continued to push forward in the final minutes, with efforts from Aqib and Sankit, but Namdhari’s defence, marshalled by Lamine Moro and Gurshan Singh, stood strong.
With this win, Namdhari FC sit atop Group A with six points from two matches, boosting their chances of qualifying for the quarterfinals. They now prepare for a key encounter against East Bengal on Wednesday, August 6.