Luka Majcen’s injury-time goal helped debutants Diamond Harbour FC defeat former champions Mohammedan Sporting 2-1 in their Durand Cup opener. DHFC showed resilience and tactical brilliance, with goals from Sairuatkima and Majcen sealing the win in Group B’s first match at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
In a thrilling opener to Group B of the 134th Durand Cup at the iconic Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK), Slovenian striker Luka Majcen delivered a moment of magic in injury time to hand tournament debutants Diamond Harbour FC (DHFC) a stunning 2-1 victory over former champions Mohammedan Sporting on Monday.
This Group B clash marked the beginning of a promising campaign for DHFC, the reigning I-League 2 champions, who showcased grit, tactical maturity, and moments of brilliance under the guidance of Spanish coach Kibu Vicuna. Mohammedan Sporting, a traditional powerhouse in Indian football, started strongly but failed to convert dominance into points.
First Half: Mohammedan Strike First
The game opened with high intensity, both sides seeking early control. Mohammedan Sporting, under head coach Mehraj Ud Din Wadoo, deployed a 3-4-3 formation, applying pressure through quick flank play and midfield control. DHFC, opting for a more balanced 4-3-3 setup, looked to counter with pace.
Despite some early threats from DHFC, particularly a narrowly missed effort by Brazilian recruit Clayton Da Silva, it was Mohammedan who drew first blood. In the 31st minute, Ashley Alban Koli lofted a perfect ball into the path of Thokchom Adison Singh. The nimble winger sprinted down the right, evaded defender Melroy Assisi, and fired a low shot at goal. Though DHFC keeper Mirshad managed to get a touch, the ball rebounded off his body and rolled into the net, giving Mohammedan a 1-0 lead.
Second Half: Tactical Changes Shift Momentum
Unwilling to let the match slip away, DHFC coach Vicuna made strategic substitutions at halftime. Striker Luka Majcen and winger Samuel replaced Clayton and Naro Hari Shrestha. The decision paid dividends within minutes.
Just after the restart, Samuel delivered a pinpoint corner from the right. Rising above the Mohammedan defence, DHFC defender Sairuatkima nodded in a powerful header that left keeper Subhajit Bhattacharjee stranded, leveling the score at 1-1.
Mohammedan fought back valiantly. Former ISL player Sajal Bag came close to restoring the lead in the 83rd minute with a ferocious long-range strike that beat the keeper but rattled off the post.
Luka’s Late Magic
With both teams pushing for a winner, it seemed the match was headed for a draw. But Luka Majcen had other plans. In stoppage time, Samuel chested the ball down to Majcen, who surged into the box. His initial shot was parried away by Subhajit, but the ball deflected off defender Dinesh Meetei and fell kindly for the Slovenian striker. Majcen made no mistake with his second attempt, calmly slotting it home to secure a dramatic win for DHFC.
The victory was not only a statement of intent from the new entrants but also a testament to their tactical flexibility and depth. While Mohammedan Sporting impressed in patches, their inability to finish chances and deal with pressure in the dying moments proved costly.
What’s Next in the Durand Cup
Tuesday promises more excitement in the Durand Cup, with a double-header lined up. In Group C, Jamshedpur FC will take on Indian Army FT at the JRD Tata Sports Complex Football Stadium in Jamshedpur. Later, in a Group E encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, Shillong Lajong FC will face off against Rangdajied United FC.
| Also Read: President congratulates both finalists of FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 |
As the oldest football tournament in Asia continues to deliver drama and upsets, Diamond Harbour FC’s win over a seasoned side like Mohammedan Sporting could mark the beginning of a memorable campaign for the debutants.
