Samaleswari Sporting Defeats Mohammedan SC in Durand Cup

In a surprising turn of events, Samaleswari Sporting defeated two-time champions Mohammedan Sporting Club 3-2 in a Group B match of the 135th Durand Cup held at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

Samaleswari, a debutant team, took an early lead with goals from Basit Ahmed Bhat and Marat Tareck before halftime. Mohammedan SC fought back in the second half, equalizing with goals from Lalthankima and Lalngaihsaka by the 66th minute. However, Veer Arjun Joshi scored a decisive free-kick in the 81st minute, securing the win for Samaleswari.

In injury time, Mohammedan SC's Adison Singh received a red card. With this victory, Samaleswari finished the group stage with six points from three matches, while Mohammedan SC ended with three points from two matches. The qualification race remains competitive, as Indian Army, also on three points, has two matches remaining.