How Did Bodoland FC Stun Punjab FC to Lead Group D in the 134th Durand Cup?

Kokrajhar, Aug 9 (NationPress) In a thrilling encounter, local team Bodoland FC surprised ISL club Punjab FC in front of their enthusiastic home crowd with a second-half goal from Colombian striker Robinson Blandon Rendon. This victory propelled Bodoland FC to the top of Group D in the 134th Durand Cup, hosted at the SAI Stadium. With this defeat, last year’s quarterfinalists, Punjab FC, faced elimination from the tournament, finishing their group stage run with four points from two matches, while Bodoland FC secured six points from their two matches.

Bodoland FC's Head Coach Vikash Panthi made a single change to his starting eleven, introducing Ghana International Abdul Samed Ango for Danswrang Basumatary in a 4-2-3-1 setup. In contrast, Punjab FC Head Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made two adjustments, incorporating seasoned midfielder Princeton Rebello and defender Pramveer Singh in place of Bijoy Varghese and Leon Augustine, also in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

The match began amid heavy rainfall, with Punjab FC taking the initiative early against Bodoland FC. Nikhil Prabhu commanded from the back, feeding passes into midfield where Princeton Rebello orchestrated play, making an early attempt that sailed just over the crossbar. On the flanks, Vishal and Suhail sought openings, keeping Bodoland on the defensive during the initial stages.

Bodoland, under duress, displayed moments of attacking flair. Gwgwmsar delivered an impressive through ball to Junior, whose low shot was comfortably saved by Punjab keeper Ravi Kumar. The match's intensity heightened with S. Meitei receiving the first yellow card for a late challenge.

Despite Punjab's dominance in possession, the Bodoland defensive duo of Mosang Basumatary and Dinesh Basumatary remained resolute, cutting off crosses and blocking shots. As the first half concluded, the score stood at 0–0, with Punjab's attacking trio unable to penetrate Bodoland’s disciplined and resolute defense.

As the second half commenced with the rain subsiding to a light drizzle, Bodoland quickly seized the momentum. The decisive moment arrived when Gwgwmsar Gayary sent a tantalizing cross into the Punjab box. In the ensuing scramble, Robinson Blandon Rendon showcased his instinctive striking ability, seizing the rebound and firing past Ravi Kumar, igniting jubilation among the home supporters and handing Bodoland FC a crucial 1–0 lead.

Punjab FC reacted with urgency, making substitutions to invigorate their frontline in a desperate effort to equalize. However, Bodoland’s defense, anchored by Mosang Basumatary, continued to hold firm, deflecting crosses and thwarting shots. Punjab’s attempts fell short, as their shots either went astray or were comfortably managed by the home side's defense.

The tension mounted in the closing minutes, but Bodoland’s determination and defensive strategy proved effective. Bolstered by the fervent support of their fans, Bodoland FC maintained their lead and celebrated their second consecutive victory, marking their best showing in the Durand Cup to date.