Imphal Derby Ends in Dramatic 1-1 Draw in Durand Cup 2025

Image Credit: Durand Media

The Imphal Derby lived up to expectations, ending in a 1-1 draw as NEROCA FC netted a stoppage-time equaliser to deny 10-man TRAU FC a win in their Group E opener of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup.

The match, played at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, saw TRAU take the lead through Khunjamayum Raj Singh in the 58th minute. However, Arunkumar Singh salvaged a point for NEROCA FC with a goal in the sixth minute of added time.

TRAU Head Coach Thangjam Saran Singh fielded an all-Indian eleven in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Nepolean Morangthem leading the line. NEROCA FC, under Gyan Moyon, started with a more experienced 4-4-2 setup, including three foreigners to bolster their attack.

NEROCA started brightly, pressing high, and almost took an early lead through captain Angom Kinesh Singh. However, TRAU gradually grew into the game, focusing on controlling possession and maintaining structure. Despite the tempo, both teams struggled to test the goalkeepers in the first half.

The breakthrough came in the second half when TRAU right-back Khunjamayum Raj Singh delivered a curling ball from the right, which unexpectedly flew past the goalkeeper into the net. The goal energized the TRAU supporters and shifted the momentum temporarily in their favour.

The tide turned in the 73rd minute when TRAU were reduced to ten men after Dhanachandra Mutum received his second yellow card. NEROCA, sensing opportunity, pushed forward relentlessly in the final minutes. Substitute Zlex Mangang and Jackson Gomado came close, but TRAU goalkeeper Sapam Singh made crucial saves.

The equaliser finally arrived in the sixth minute of stoppage time. A cross from the left by Zlex was headed across goal by Waikhom, and Arunkumar Singh pounced with a perfectly timed diving header to level the score.

While TRAU will regret not holding on for all three points, NEROCA FC’s spirited fightback ensured both teams shared the spoils in an intense Imphal Derby clash.