Friday, July 11, 2025
spot_img

Churchill win Durand Cup via tie-breaker

Date:

Share post:

spot_imgspot_img

New Delhi: Churchill Brothers on Saturday regained the Durand Cup after a gap of one year by defeating Prayag United 5-4 via tie-breaker, here.

Having dominated the proceedings for the better part of the match, the defending champions were let down when their key player Yusif Yakubu’s final shot failed to find the net. It was then left for Denzel Franco to coolly slot home the final shot to win the 124th edition of the tournament.

In the tie-breaker Kayne Vincent, Mohammed Rafique, Bello Rasaq, Malsawntluanga found the target for Prayag while Laalrindika Ralte, MP Zakeer, Bineesh Balan, Anton and Franco were all on target.

Prayag coach Sanjay Sen tried to gamble with Somnath Khanra for the tie-breakers, replacing regular keeper Abhijit Mondal, but the reserve goalie showed poor anticipation as his dives were never on correct side.

Prayag should have won the match in regulation time but for the inept performance of their frontline players, especially Joshimar Martins, who spurned chances like a millionaire.

The first half was dominated by Prayag United who, on three occasions, had a clear sight of goal, but an alert Churchill goalkeeper Felix D’Souza thwarted all the attempts.

The first one was in the opening minute when Lukaram James Singh kept an accurate low centre which Denson Devadas headed. Felix was equal to the task foiling the attempt.

The best chance, however, came in the 18th minute when James’s corner found an unmarked Arnab with an open sight of goal, but his nod wasn’t powerful enough and it also lacked the required angle that would have got United their lead.

The absence of skipper Beto had an adverse effect on Churchill’s performance as they failed to conjure moves and the supply line was cut off as a result.

On one occasion Ndibuisi Opara entered the box with United custodian Abhijit Mondal at his mercy. But Mondal showed nice anticipation as he came out of his charge to save his team.

The profligacy of Josimar Martins upfront was another reason for United not getting the lead. (PTI)

spot_imgspot_img

Related articles

Djokovic one step closer to title

London, July 10: Novak Djokovic’s search for his personal Holy Grail – a 25th Grand Slam title and...

After routing Real Madrid, PSG eye Chelsea and historic quadruple

East Rutherford, July 10: Wearing their blue, red and white jerseys, Paris Saint-Germain supporters were surrounded by white...

Belinda Bencic storms into semis

London, July 9: Returning to the circuit after the birth of her child, Belinda Bencic continued with her...

Asia Cup in doubt after India, Lanka refuse to attend ACC meeting

Mumbai, July 10: The Asia Cup cricket tournament plunged into further doubt and chaos after India and Sri...