Bodoland FC Clinches Thrilling Durand Cup Victory, Keeps Knockout Hopes Alive

In a pulsating encounter that showcased the unpredictable nature of the Durand Cup, Bodoland FC emerged victorious in a seven-goal thriller against Border Security Force (BSF) FT. The 4-3 win at the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar breathed new life into Bodoland FC’s knockout stage aspirations in Group E, while BSF FT’s campaign ended without a single point.

The home side, eager to secure a crucial victory, stormed out of the gates, taking the lead within the first two minutes. Momocha Singh’s pinpoint cross found Mitinga Dwimary, who expertly slotted the ball home, sending the home crowd into raptures. Bodoland FC continued to press, creating several promising opportunities, but a combination of missed chances and resolute BSF defending kept the scoreline at 1-0. Mitinga himself missed a golden opportunity from close range, and a follow-up shot by Ghanaian striker Joe Aidoo was cleared off the line.

BSF, despite trailing, showed glimpses of their attacking potential, with Lakhwinder Singh and Kishori coming close to equalizing. However, Bodoland FC entered halftime with a slender lead, feeling somewhat aggrieved after a handball appeal against BSF captain Mohammad Aasif was waved away.

The second half exploded into life with a flurry of goals. BSF capitalized on a defensive miscommunication between Danswrang Basumatry and goalkeeper Draoga Brahma, with Kishori calmly slotting home to level the scores and register BSF’s first goal of the tournament.

Bodoland FC responded swiftly, earning a penalty after a foul on Zacharie Mbenda. Jwngbla Brahma converted from the spot, restoring the lead for the home side. The momentum swung back and forth, with Kishori scoring his second of the match for BSF, only for Jwngbla to reply with a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box, restoring Bodoland’s two-goal cushion.

The match took another dramatic turn when Bodoland FC’s right-back, Bilson Daimari, was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge, leaving his team to defend their lead with ten men. BSF, sensing an opportunity, pressed forward and were rewarded in the 89th minute when Kishori set up substitute Asif Khan for a close-range finish.

Despite BSF’s late surge, Bodoland FC held on for a crucial victory, finishing their group stage campaign with six points. While Kerala Blasters secured the top spot in Group E, Bodoland FC now faces an anxious wait, hoping to qualify as one of the two best second-placed teams.

The match showcased the unpredictable and exciting nature of the Durand Cup, with both teams displaying attacking intent and fighting spirit. For Bodoland FC, this victory keeps their knockout stage hopes alive, while BSF FT, despite their valiant efforts, bid farewell to the tournament. The stage is now set for the knockout rounds, where the intensity and drama are sure to reach even greater heights.