TRAU FC Triumphs Over Indian Navy FT in Thrilling Durand Cup Clash

TRAU FC Secures Victory in Final Group D Match

Imphal (Manipur) [India], August 9: Afridi Buyamayum netted two goals, including a stunning strike in the second half, leading Tiddim Road Athletic Union Football Club (TRAU FC) to a hard-fought 2-1 win against Indian Navy FT in their concluding Group D match of the 135th Durand Cup at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium on Sunday.

Despite facing significant pressure from Indian Navy, who made an impressive 26 attempts on goal, TRAU FC showcased their finishing skills. Buyamayum's two goals, along with a stellar performance from goalkeeper Tajuddin, enabled the Manipur team to secure all three points, as reported by a press release from AIFF Media.

Buyamayum opened the scoring in the 16th minute, but Indian Navy quickly equalized after halftime with a goal from Khullakpam Zahir Khan. However, Buyamayum struck again in the 60th minute with a remarkable shot, restoring TRAU's lead.

This victory allowed TRAU FC to finish second in Group D, accumulating four points from three matches. Indian Navy concluded their group stage with three points from three games, with both teams exiting before the quarter-finals. The outcome also confirmed debutants FC Raengdai as Group D champions, earning a spot in the quarter-finals.

TRAU FC employed a 4-2-3-1 formation, featuring Tajuddin in goal, supported by Zlex Khangjrakpam Mangang, Nongmeikapam Meitei, Seila Toure, and Chongompipa Reamsochung Aimol in defense. Adriko Rogers and Chanam Akash Meitei anchored the midfield, while Afdal Varikkodan, Mynam Arif Husain, Afridi Buyamayum, and Ghanefo Ansumana Kromah formed the attacking front.

On the other hand, Indian Navy FT adopted an aggressive 3-4-3 formation, with Bhaskar Roy in goal and a back three comprising Navjot Singh, Novin Gurung, and M. Deny Singh. The midfield was manned by Roshan Panna, Vijay Marandi, Muhammed Inayath, and Emanuel Lalhanchhunga, while Khullakpam Zahir Khan, Brijesh Giri, and Adersh Mattummal led the attack.

From the outset, Indian Navy controlled the game, pushing TRAU FC deep into their half. Their first significant chance came in the seventh minute, with three consecutive attempts on goal, but TRAU's defense held firm. The Navy continued to apply pressure, testing TRAU's defense from long range, while TRAU struggled to maintain possession.

In a surprising turn of events, TRAU found the net in the 16th minute. Afridi Buyamayum created space outside the box and unleashed a spectacular curling shot that soared into the top corner, leaving Bhaskar Roy helpless. This moment shifted the dynamics of the match.

Following the goal, TRAU gained some composure, although they still found it challenging to create clear chances. The intensity of the game decreased towards the end of the first half, with both teams relying on aerial battles.

At halftime, Indian Navy had made 12 attempts, six of which were on target, dominating possession, but TRAU's disciplined defense kept Buyamayum's brilliant goal as the only difference.

Just 16 seconds into the second half, Indian Navy equalized. Khullakpam Zahir Khan capitalized on a defensive error, calmly slotting the ball into the net to make it 1-1.

The initial minutes of the second half were again dominated by Indian Navy, who sought a second goal. They came close shortly after equalizing, but Zlex Khangjrakpam Mangang executed a timely challenge to thwart the advancing attacker.

However, similar to the first half, TRAU struck against the run of play. In the 60th minute, they launched a quick counter-attack, with Afridi Buyamayum scoring again to restore TRAU's lead at 2-1.

In response, Indian Navy pushed forward in search of another equalizer, but Tajuddin was exceptional in goal. He made a remarkable save in the 65th minute, tipping a powerful long-range shot over the bar after it took a dangerous deflection.

Tajuddin was called into action again shortly after, making another crucial save to maintain TRAU's slim lead. Following the final hydration break, Indian Navy launched a desperate assault in the closing minutes, sending numerous crosses into the TRAU penalty area, but the hosts remained steadfast.

By the end of the match, Indian Navy had recorded an astonishing 26 attempts, with 15 on target, while TRAU managed only eight shots, with two on target. Remarkably, both of TRAU's shots on target resulted in goals.

Ultimately, TRAU FC's effective finishing, solid defense, and Afridi Buyamayum's standout performance were key to their dramatic 2-1 victory, concluding their Durand Cup campaign on a high note.