Real Kashmir secure commanding 3-1 win over NEROCA FC to top group F Durand Cup
The win propelled the Snow Leopards to the top of the group with six points from three games, effectively wrapping up their group-stage campaign. NEROCA FC, meanwhile, concluded their campaign with just two points.
The final group fixture between Indian Navy FT and TRAU FC, scheduled for August 12, will now decide which team progresses to the knockout stage as Group F winners.
NEROCA FC head coach Gyan Moyon made two alterations to his starting XI, bringing in Kabrabam Arun Kumar Singh and Saphaba Singh Telem, replacing Nonganba Singh Akoijam and Nongthongbam Japes. The home side lined up in a traditional 4-4-2 formation.
Real Kashmir coach Ishfaq Ahmed made a solitary change, introducing Ahteeb Ahmad Dar for Shahid Nazir in a 4-2-3-1 setup.
The opening 30 minutes were cagey, with both teams feeling each other out in midfield. NEROCA attempted to assert control with a high press, and Harrison's darting run offered early promise, but the Real Kashmir defence stood firm.
NEROCA's best opportunity of the half came when Saphaba beat two defenders and delivered a low cross to Arun, whose shot went just wide of the post.
The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute. Real Kashmir capitalised on a corner, with veteran defender Salam Ranjan Singh left unmarked inside the box. He brought the ball down expertly and lashed it past the goalkeeper to give the visitors a deserved lead.
The goal rattled NEROCA, who soon saw Rohit and Kinesh booked for reckless challenges. Real Kashmir nearly doubled their advantage before halftime when Haider Yusuf threaded a clever ball through to Sessegnon, but his cross failed to find a teammate.
NEROCA came out with renewed energy after the break, pressing hard in search of an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute. Saphaba was the architect once again, weaving past two defenders before threading a perfectly weighted pass between the centre-backs. Lucas timed his run to perfection and slotted a low shot beyond Furqan to make it 1–1.
But NEROCA's joy was short-lived. Just three minutes later, Real Kashmir struck back from a set piece. Rohen Singh delivered a curling free-kick from the right flank. Toure rose at the near post and flicked it on with the back of his head, sending the NEROCA defence scrambling. Tarek pounced on the loose ball and calmly buried it into the far corner to restore Real Kashmir's lead at 2–1.
The visitors sealed the contest in the 82nd minute with a swift and clinical counterattack. Tarek drove down the right and played a perfectly timed through ball to Modou Mbengue, who had drifted in unmarked. With composure and finesse, Mbengue cut inside and fired a low shot into the bottom corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
The late goal sealed an emphatic 3–1 win for Real Kashmir, ensuring they finish their group-stage campaign strongly. The performance showcased not just tactical discipline but also clinical finishing in key moments, while NEROCA's defensive frailties ultimately cost them.
Real Kashmir now await the result of the final group game to determine their quarterfinal fate, but they've made a strong case for progression in the tournament. UNI NS SSP
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