Imphal Derby Ends in Draw as TRAU FC and NEROCA FC Battle to a Standstill

In a thrilling encounter at the 135th Durand Cup, TRAU FC and NEROCA FC battled to a goalless draw in the Imphal Derby. Both teams showcased their attacking prowess but failed to convert their chances into goals. The match featured high intensity, disciplined defending, and a second-half red card that left TRAU FC with ten players. Despite NEROCA FC's relentless pursuit for a winner, they could not penetrate TRAU's resolute defense. Read on to discover the key moments and performances from this exciting clash.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 28, 2026, 23:53 IST

Intense Imphal Derby Fails to Produce Goals

The highly anticipated Imphal Derby between TRAU FC and NEROCA FC concluded in a goalless draw during the 135th Durand Cup, held at the bustling Khuman Lampak Main Stadium on Tuesday. Both teams had their fair share of opportunities but were unable to convert any into goals.

The match was characterized by high energy, featuring fast-paced action, solid defensive strategies, and a pivotal red card in the second half that left TRAU FC with ten players, as reported by a press release.

Both teams adopted a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to balance defensive strength with counterattacking potential. TRAU FC's coach, Thangjam Saran Singh, has constructed his squad around a robust foreign contingent, including Senegalese defender Seila Toure, Ugandan midfielder Adriko Rogers, and Liberian striker Ghanefo Ansumana Kromah. On the other hand, NEROCA FC's coach, Yumnam Raju Mangang, relied on his overseas players as well, with Ghanaian defender Ben Nash Quansh anchoring the defense and Ghanaian forward Charles Teiko Folley spearheading the attack, supported by a disciplined midfield.

Both teams started the match with an attacking mindset while maintaining defensive organization. The initial exchanges were evenly matched, with the first significant chance falling to NEROCA FC from a corner. After a header from a TRAU FC player was blocked, the ball found its way to Sridarth Nongmeikam, whose powerful shot was expertly saved by the goalkeeper, keeping the score level.

TRAU FC nearly broke the deadlock shortly after with a corner of their own. Defender Seila Toure connected with a strong header, but it struck the post, leaving NEROCA's defense relieved as both teams continued their search for the first goal.

TRAU FC came close again when Afridi Buyamayum made a strong run through the middle, unleashing a long-range shot that narrowly missed the target.

The first half continued with both teams attacking vigorously, creating chances through counterattacks and set pieces. Despite a series of fouls, the match remained scoreless as the teams headed into halftime.

NEROCA FC started the second half aggressively and almost took the lead when Lambalmayum Hemba Meetei sent a perfect cross to Charles Teiko Folley, whose powerful header was brilliantly saved by TRAU FC's goalkeeper, Sapam Nongpoknganba Singh.

NEROCA FC missed another golden chance when substitute Ngathem Imarson Meitei made a skillful run down the left and delivered a precise pass to Sridarth Nongmeikapam. His first-time shot was saved, and although he got a second chance, he failed to keep it on target.

A dangerous free-kick was awarded to NEROCA FC after Ronaldo Wairokpam was penalized for a high boot on Charles Teiko Folley. Ngathem Imarson Meitei took the free-kick from 25 yards, but TRAU's goalkeeper made another impressive diving save.

TRAU FC faced a setback when Adriko Rogers received a second yellow card, resulting in a red card after a heated exchange with the referee, leaving his team a man down.

The final moments of the match saw NEROCA FC dominating possession as they sought a winning goal, while TRAU FC held firm defensively despite being a player short. NEROCA earned several corners and maintained pressure, with Ben Nash Quansh coming closest to scoring but failing to direct his header on target. Ultimately, despite their relentless efforts, NEROCA could not breach TRAU's resilient defense, and the match ended in a hard-fought draw.