NorthEast United FC and Shillong Lajong FC have secured their spots in the Durand Cup 2024 semi-finals. NorthEast United defeated Indian Army FT, while Shillong Lajong surprised East Bengal FC. Both teams will now face each other in the semi-finals.
NorthEast United FC Overcomes Indian Army FT
NorthEast United FC secured their semi-final berth with a 2-0 win against Indian Army FT at the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar. The match saw both teams battling fiercely, but it was the second half where NorthEast United made their mark.
NorthEast United began the match with strong intent, applying early pressure on the Indian Army defense. The attacking trio of Nestor Albiach, Guillermo Fernandez, and Jithin MS dominated the early exchanges. However, Indian Army goalkeeper Bhabindara Malla Thakuri made crucial saves to keep the scoreline level.
As the first half progressed, Indian Army FT gained control of the midfield, using the wings effectively to stretch the play. Their set-piece threats were evident, with Pardeep Singh’s header forcing a save from NorthEast United’s goalkeeper, Gurmeet Singh. Despite Indian Army’s pressure, the first half ended goalless.
The second half saw both teams intensifying their efforts. NorthEast United finally broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute. A long ball from left-back Samte found Guillermo, who headed it down for Nestor Albiach. The Spaniard’s volleyed left-footer found the bottom corner, putting NorthEast United in the lead.
Shortly after, Guillermo nearly doubled the lead, but his header was cleared off the line. In the 73rd minute, Guillermo scored again with a spectacular ‘scorpion kick’ from a Redeem Tlang cross, making it 2-0.
Indian Army FT attempted to fight back, but NorthEast United’s defense held firm, securing their place in the semi-finals.
Shillong Lajong FC Stuns East Bengal FC
Shillong Lajong FC defeated East Bengal FC 2-1 in a thrilling quarter-final at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, advancing to the semi-finals. The match featured intense action and a late winning goal that stunned East Bengal.
Shillong Lajong took an early lead in the eighth minute. Marcos Rudwere scored from a corner delivered by Hardy Nongbri. This goal pushed East Bengal to attack aggressively.
Despite creating many chances, East Bengal couldn’t break down Shillong Lajong’s defense. Rudwere nearly added another goal, but his header hit the crossbar. At halftime, Shillong Lajong led 1-0.
The second half was a fierce contest. In the 77th minute, East Bengal equalized through Nandhakumar Sekar, who finished calmly after a setup by Vishnu PV.
As East Bengal pressed for a winner, Shillong Lajong countered. In the final minutes, Rudwere crossed to Figo Syndai, who scored the winning goal, securing a 2-1 victory.
East Bengal’s attempts to equalize again were unsuccessful, and Shillong Lajong held on for the win.
Looking Ahead: A Thrilling Semi-Final Encounter
The upcoming semi-final clash between NorthEast United FC and Shillong Lajong FC promises to be an exciting encounter. Both teams have shown resilience and skill to reach this stage, and fans can expect a thrilling match as they vie for a place in the Durand Cup 2024 final. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
