Namdhari FC beats Indian Air Force 4-2 in Durand Cup clash

Namdhari FC defeated Indian Air Force 4-2 in a Group A Durand Cup match. Goals from Dasilva, Amandeep, Dharmpreet and Lotjem powered the I-League side past a resilient Airmen unit

Hyderabad: Namdhari FC continued its winning run at the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup with a commanding 4-2 victory over Indian Air Force Football Team in a crucial Group A clash, here at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK).

Samuel K opened the scoring for the Airmen in the 7th minute, but the I-League side responded with goals from Cledson Dasilva (penalty, 37’), Amandeep Singh (45’), and second-half strikes from Dharmpreet Singh (60’) and substitute Seilenthang Lotjem (74’) to secure all three points. Despite a late goal from Sankit in the 78th minute, the Airmen could not mount a comeback.

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Both teams came out with attacking intent, starting in a 4-4-2 formation. Indian Air Force coach Priya Darshan relied on the experienced attacking duo of Saurav Sadhukhan and Aman Khan, while Namdhari FC head coach Harpreet Singh fielded a strong XI led by Brazilian striker Cledson Dasilva and winger Bhupinder Singh.

It was the Airmen who drew first blood in the 7th minute when midfielder Samuel K capitalised on a loose ball after a cross from Saurav. His initial attempt was blocked, but on the rebound, he volleyed it into the far post, giving Namdhari keeper Niraj Kumar no chance.