Late Strikes Seal First Durand Cup Win for Namdhari Against South United

Image Credit: Durand Media

Namdhari opened their Durand Cup campaign in style with a 2–0 win over fellow debutants South United FC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan, thanks to late goals from Bhupinder Singh and Brazilian forward Cledson Dasilva.

Both sides entered the contest with points to prove in Group A, but it was the I-League outfit from Punjab who showed greater composure and organisation, especially in the second half. Despite a spirited performance from the Bengaluru-based South United, they ended their maiden Durand Cup journey with just one point from three matches.

South United, donning their traditional orange kits for the first time in the tournament, started brightly but were unable to convert their industry into goals. Coach Kaja Bhadussa rotated his squad heavily, making five changes, including bringing in goalkeeper Sunil Singh, who produced several key saves throughout the match.

Namdhari, led by coach Harpreet Singh, fielded experienced campaigners including Ghanaian defender Lamine Moro and striker Cledson. They began probing early, with Aatma Singh testing the keeper in the 10th minute. Sunil Singh was equal to the challenge and continued to keep his side in the game with a string of saves.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 79th minute when Bhupinder, following a failed clearance, pounced on a loose ball and fired in a powerful shot at the near post. Just six minutes later, Namdhari doubled their lead. Bhupinder turned provider this time, delivering a low cross which deflected into the path of Cledson, who finished from close range.

With this win, Namdhari join Emami East Bengal FC on three points, though the latter remain top of Group A on goals scored. Indian Air Force are on one point with two games left to play.

South United exit the competition, but not without leaving an impression with their energetic, if ultimately unsuccessful, displays in all three group matches.