Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal

Imphal, Aug 12: Indian Navy Football Team pulled off a stunning late comeback to defeat local favourites TRAU FC 2-1 and secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the 134th Durand Cup. The thrilling Group F encounter, held at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, saw dramatic goals from Pintu Mahata and Sreyas V.G in the final minutes, turning the game on its head after trailing for most of the match.

TRAU FC struck first in the 29th minute when Moirangthem Nelson Singh capitalised on a well-constructed move involving Yumnam Monis Singh and Jenish Singh. Against the run of play, Nelson calmly slotted past Navy goalkeeper Bhaskar Roy to ignite the home crowd.

Despite the early setback, Indian Navy FT continued to dominate possession and press high. Their attacking unit, led by Sreyas V.G, Roshan Panna, and Vijay Marandi, frequently threatened the TRAU defence. Midfielders Pintu Mahata and J. Vijay orchestrated the build-up play, but a combination of missed chances, poor finishing, and heroic defending by TRAU kept the Navy side at bay.

TRAU's goalkeeper Sapam Nongpoknganba Singh had an outstanding match, making several key saves including a spectacular stop from J. Vijay's thunderous strike and a reflex save off Afridi Buyamayum’s header in the second half. Defender Adarsh Matummal almost scored a sensational goal from a 40-yard free kick, only to be denied by the woodwork and a quick recovery by the keeper on the rebound.

As time ticked down and a group-stage exit loomed, Indian Navy’s persistence finally paid off. In the 87th minute, Sreyas V.G delivered a sharp pass to Pintu Mahata, who found the equaliser with a toe-poke past the keeper, reigniting hope for the visitors.

Then, in the third minute of injury time, the moment of magic arrived. A looping cross from C. Pradeesh was met with an acrobatic finish from Sreyas V.G, sealing the win and breaking TRAU’s resistance. The late strike silenced the home fans and secured Indian Navy FT’s top spot in Group F with seven points — edging out Real Kashmir FC, who finished second with six.

With this victory, Indian Navy FT advances to the knockout stages, showcasing grit, determination, and late-match composure under pressure.