In a gripping Group A encounter of the 134th Durand Cup, the Indian Air Force Football Team (IAFFT) showcased remarkable resilience to earn a dramatic 3-3 draw against tournament debutant South United FC at the Kishore Bharati Stadium in Kolkata on Sunday.
Teenage forward Makakmayum Daniel was the star of the show for South United, netting a brilliant hat-trick, but his individual brilliance was not enough to seal victory as IAFFT’s determined fightback culminated in a last-minute equaliser deep into stoppage time.
Daniel wasted no time in stamping his authority on the game, scoring twice within the opening 25 minutes. His first goal came in the 9th minute, capitalising on a defensive lapse, followed by a clinical finish in the 23rd minute to put South United comfortably ahead at 2-0.
However, IAFFT responded swiftly. Mohammad Aqib reduced the deficit just three minutes later in the 26th minute with a precise finish, injecting hope into the Airmen’s camp. The comeback continued early in the second half when Akish Cyril found the back of the net in the 48th minute, bringing IAFFT level and shifting the momentum.
South United, eager to start their maiden campaign with a win, pushed forward relentlessly. Their persistence paid off in the 84th minute when Daniel completed his hat-trick with a stunning volley, seemingly sealing a hard-earned win and sparking celebrations on their bench.
But IAFFT had the final say. As the match ticked into the sixth minute of added time, defender Sankit rose above the crowd to head home the equaliser from a set-piece, breaking South United hearts and snatching a valuable point.
In another match earlier in the day, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police Football Team (ITBPFT) claimed a 2-1 victory over Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC in the Group D opener at the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar.
Karbi Anglong drew first blood through Lunminlen Haokip in the 30th minute, but their hopes took a hit when Ghanaian centre-back Ben Nash Quansh received a straight red card for a reckless challenge in the 23rd minute, reducing them to 10 men. ITBPFT took full advantage, with goals from Pulung Diamary (45th) and Hemraj Bhujel (60th) completing the comeback and securing all three points.
The Durand Cup continues to deliver early drama, setting the stage for an exciting group stage.
