Debutants Diamond Harbour FC produced the shock of the 134th Durand Cup on Sunday, defeating Indian Super League side Jamshedpur FC 2–0 in the quarter-finals at the JRD Tata Sports Complex to book their place in the last four of the competition.
Defender Sairuatkima emerged as the unlikely match-winner, scoring twice in the first half to silence the home crowd and hand the Bengal side a famous victory in their maiden appearance at the tournament. The breakthrough came as early as the third minute when a long throw caught the Jamshedpur backline off guard and Sairuatkima stabbed home from close range.
Jamshedpur, coached by Steven Dias on an interim basis, struggled to settle after the early setback and were hit again four minutes before half-time. Samuel Lalmuanpuia’s cross took a deflection and fell perfectly for Sairuatkima, who connected with a well-timed volley to double the lead and put Diamond Harbour firmly in control.
Also read: Jamshedpur seek semis spot as Kolkata derby ignites Durand Cup
The ISL side dominated possession in the second half but were repeatedly denied by a disciplined and compact Diamond Harbour defence, marshalled superbly by goalkeeper Mirshad Koottappunna. The shot-stopper made a series of crucial saves, including a spectacular double stop to keep out Sanan and VP Suhair.
Diamond Harbour continued to pose a threat on the counter through Luka Majcen, Hali Charan Narzary and Jobby Justin, while Jamshedpur were restricted to long-range efforts from Rei Tachikawa and Jayesh Rane that failed to trouble the target.
Despite sustained pressure, the home side could not find a way back into the game, and Vicuna’s well-organised team held on for a memorable victory that takes them into the semi-finals on debut.
Meanwhile, in the other quarter-final, East Bengal FC led Mohun Bagan Super Giant 1–0 at half-time in the much-anticipated Kolkata derby.
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