FC Raengdai made a memorable debut in the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup, securing a 1-0 victory over last year’s quarter-finalists, Indian Navy Football Team, in a Group D fixture at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in Imphal. The Manipuri outfit’s historic win was sealed by substitute Khaidem Amarjit Singh’s decisive goal in the 58th minute, marking the team’s first-ever Durand Cup goal.
The Indian Navy team, led by head coach Akash Kamble, fielded an experienced starting XI featuring several players with Indian Super League and Indian Football League experience. In contrast, FC Raengdai head coach Kshetrimayum Birbal Singh opted for a youthful all-Indian lineup, as the club made its maiden appearance in the Durand Cup.
The match saw both teams create scoring opportunities, with FC Raengdai’s Mridul Doley making a clever run in behind the Indian Navy defence in the third minute. However, his left-footed effort was saved by experienced goalkeeper Bhaskar Roy. Indian Navy matched the early intensity, particularly from set-piece situations, but neither team could find the cutting edge in the final third.
The second half saw FC Raengdai emerge with renewed intent, creating several opportunities before eventually taking the lead in the 58th minute. Substitute Amarjit Singh scored the decisive goal, tapping into an empty net after Mridul Doley was brought down by the advancing goalkeeper. As Indian Navy pushed for an equaliser, defensive lapses began to creep into their game, but FC Raengdai defended resolutely to protect their lead.
Despite Indian Navy’s late pressure, FC Raengdai held on for a famous victory, with the debutants displaying tremendous discipline to withstand the pressure in front of a loud and passionate home support. The win marked a historic moment for the Manipuri outfit, who secured their first-ever Durand Cup win in their maiden appearance.
