SC Delhi Triumphs Over FC Raengdai with a 5-1 Comeback in Durand Cup Quarter-Finals

In an exhilarating quarter-final of the 2026 Durand Cup, SC Delhi overcame a first-half deficit to defeat FC Raengdai 5-1. After FC Raengdai's Chongtham Kishan Singh opened the scoring, SC Delhi's Joseph Sunny emerged as a key player, netting two goals to turn the match around. With additional goals from Rodriguinho, Juan Sebastian Pena, and Augustine Lalrochana, SC Delhi secured their place in the semi-finals. The match highlighted SC Delhi's resilience and attacking prowess, setting the stage for their next challenge.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 16, 2026, 19:40 IST

SC Delhi's Impressive Comeback

In a thrilling quarter-final match of the 2026 Durand Cup held at Birsa Munda Football Stadium on Sunday, SC Delhi staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat debutants FC Raengdai 5-1. The game began with FC Raengdai taking the lead through a stunning long-range goal by Chongtham Kishan Singh. However, SC Delhi turned the tide in the second half, thanks to a brace from substitute Joseph Sunny, along with goals from Rodriguinho, Juan Sebastian Pena, and Augustine Lalrochana, propelling them into the semi-finals.

Raengdai's Early Advantage

FC Raengdai started strong, controlling the game and pressing high from the outset. SC Delhi's captain, Lamgoulen Semkholun, nearly equalized in the seventh minute with a well-placed cross, but Juan Sebastian Pena's header went over the bar. Just two minutes later, Raengdai took the lead with a spectacular shot from Kishan Singh that hit the crossbar and went in, leaving SC Delhi's goalkeeper, Nora Fernandes, helpless.

SC Delhi's Response

Following the goal, SC Delhi ramped up their efforts, creating several scoring opportunities. Semkholun tested the Raengdai defense with a shot from a tight angle, but the goalkeeper, Kamei Pantiga, and the defense held firm. Despite SC Delhi's pressure, they could not find the net before halftime, with Raengdai leading 1-0 at the break.

Sunny's Impact in the Second Half

After halftime, SC Delhi came out with renewed energy, and the introduction of Joseph Sunny proved pivotal. In the 52nd minute, Sunny nearly scored but was denied by Pantiga's excellent save. However, just five minutes later, Sunny leveled the score with a precise shot into the bottom-left corner after receiving a pass from Pena. This goal boosted SC Delhi's confidence significantly.

Dominance in the Final Minutes

Ten minutes later, Sunny struck again, finishing calmly after a brilliant no-look pass from Pena. Despite Raengdai's attempts to respond, SC Delhi maintained control of the match. In the 78th minute, Rodriguinho finally scored, showcasing his skill by maneuvering past defenders to make it 3-1. The match concluded with SC Delhi scoring two more goals in stoppage time, sealing a comprehensive 5-1 victory.

Looking Ahead

This victory advances SC Delhi to the semi-finals of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup, where they will face the winner of the upcoming match between the Indian Army Football Team and East Bengal FC on August 19 in Kolkata. Additionally, the tournament recognizes outstanding Emerging Players, with Samuel K. Vanlalpeka and Naorem Somananda Singh from the Indian Air Force Football Team receiving awards for their performances.