How Did Namdhari FC Overcome Indian Air Force FT to Lead Group A?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Namdhari FC demonstrated resilience by coming back from a goal down.
- Key players included Cledson Dasilva and Amandeep Singh.
- The match showcased the attacking strategies of both teams.
- Namdhari's defensive line held strong despite being reduced to ten men.
- They now lead Group A in the 134th Durand Cup.
Kolkata, August 3 (NationPress) Namdhari FC came from behind to secure a thrilling 4-2 win against the Indian Air Force Football Team in the 134th Durand Cup, maintaining their strong performance in Group A at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) on Sunday.
Initially, the Airmen took the lead with a goal from Samuel K. in the 7th minute, but the I-League side quickly responded. Goals from Cledson Dasilva (penalty, 37’), Amandeep Singh (45’), and second-half efforts from Dharmpreet Singh (60’) and substitute Seilenthang Lotjem (74’) ensured a commanding victory. A late goal from Sankit in the 78th minute was insufficient for the Airmen to turn the tide.
Both squads displayed an attacking mindset, utilizing a 4-4-2 formation. Indian Air Force coach Priya Darshan relied on the seasoned duo Saurav Sadhukhan and Aman Khan, while Namdhari FC head coach Harpreet Singh fielded a robust lineup featuring Brazilian forward Cledson Dasilva and winger Bhupinder Singh.
The Airmen struck first in the 7th minute when midfielder Samuel K. capitalized on a loose ball from a Saurav cross. His initial shot was blocked, but the rebound found its way into the net, leaving Namdhari keeper Niraj Kumar with no chance.
Namdhari FC quickly shifted gears, with Dasilva missing a couple of opportunities before equalizing in the 37th minute. A foul on defender Lamine Moro by Aman Khan inside the box led to a penalty, which Dasilva expertly converted into the bottom right corner.
As halftime approached, the momentum swung in Namdhari's favor. In the 45th minute, a long throw from Jaskaranpreet Singh was misjudged by the Air Force defense, allowing Amandeep to score and give Namdhari a 2-1 lead.
Continuing their aggressive play in the second half, Namdhari extended their lead in the 60th minute when Dharampreet Singh finished a move initiated by Jaskaranpreet.
Despite a red card for Manbir Singh in the 73rd minute, Namdhari FC maintained their composure. Dasilva sliced through the Airmen's defense, assisting Seilenthang Lotjem to score, bringing the tally to 4-1.
The Air Force managed to pull one back in the 78th minute through Sankit, who capitalized on a defensive error. The Airmen pushed hard in the final moments, but Namdhari's defense, anchored by Lamine Moro and Gurshan Singh, stood strong.
With this victory, Namdhari FC ascends to the top of Group A with six points from two matches, positioning themselves well for a quarterfinal berth ahead of a pivotal match against East Bengal on Wednesday.