Kolkata/Imphal,: The 134th IndianOil Durand Cup reaches a crucial juncture on Saturday (August 10th, 2025) with two important encounters that could define the knockout scenarios. While East Bengal FC look to maintain their perfect record in Group A against Indian Air Force FT at Kolkata’s Kishore Bharati Krirangan, the spotlight equally falls on Imphal where NEROCA FC and Real Kashmir FC square off in what promises to be a Group F thriller with qualification implications at the iconic Khuman Lampak Main Stadium.
All 43 matches of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup are being broadcast LIVE on the Sony Sports Network (Sony Ten2 HD) as well as livestreamed on the SonyLiv OTT platform.
East Bengal eye perfect group stage completion
The evening clash in Kolkata sees already-qualified East Bengal FC take on struggling Indian Air Force FT, with the Red and Gold Brigade having the luxury of fielding a mix of first-team regulars and fringe players. Oscar Bruzon’s men have been the standout performers in Group A, showcasing attacking prowess with a commanding 5-0 victory over South United FC in their tournament opener, followed by a crucial 1-0 win against group toppers Namdhari FC.
The Spanish tactician has built a formidable unit around experienced campaigners like Saul Crespo, Dimitrios Diamantakos, and skipper Naorem Mahesh Singh, while new signings have seamlessly integrated into the system. Moroccan striker Hamid Ahadad announced his arrival with a debut goal against Namdhari, demonstrating the squad depth that could prove vital in the knockout rounds.
“We want to maintain our winning momentum and use the Indian Air Force match to fix the gaps before the knockouts. The Durand Cup doesn’t allow any mistakes, so we need to stay focused even though we’ve qualified,” Bruzon emphasized ahead of the fixture.
Indian Air Force FT, under head coach Priyadarshan, face the daunting task of avoiding elimination with just one point from their opening two fixtures. The Airmen showed resilience in their 3-3 thriller against South United FC but were outclassed 4-2 by Namdhari FC despite a spirited fightback. With experienced defenders like TG Songliansiam marshalling the backline and attackers Saurav Sadhukhan and Aman Khan leading the charge, the Air Force will need a perfect performance to salvage their campaign apart from the pride factor that is at stake.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Coach Priyadarshan remains optimistic about his team’s chances against the tournament favorites. “This is a huge opportunity to play against a strong team, the favourites. We are fully prepared and looking forward to more exposure for our players. Our youngsters performing against the stars is a huge opportunity for their development. We lost the match against Namdhari due to silly mistakes, but we learned from that experience.”
Neroca & Kashmir Battle for Qualification in Manipur
Earlier in the day at Imphal’s Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, local favorites NEROCA FC face Real Kashmir FC in what could be termed the most crucial fixture in Group F. Both teams arrive with contrasting momentum but identical desperation for three points that could secure knockout qualification.
NEROCA FC, under the guidance of head coach Gyan Moyon, have shown tactical discipline but lacked the killer instinct in front of goal. The Orange Brigade managed creditable draws against TRAU FC (1-1) and Indian Navy FT (0-0), with Jetli Sorokhaibam proving reliable between the sticks. Captain Angom Kinesh Singh and midfielder Jackson Gomado will be key to unlocking a Real Kashmir defense that has shown vulnerability against pace and directness.
“We’ve prepared well as a unit. Now it’s about executing our plan and bringing the full three points home,” said NEROCA head coach Gyan Moyon, reflecting the determination within the camp ahead of the crucial fixture.
Real Kashmir FC arrive in Imphal with renewed confidence after bouncing back from an opening defeat to Indian Navy FT with a spirited 2-1 victory over TRAU FC. The Snow Leopards, led by experienced head coach Ishfaq Ahmed, have found their rhythm with Russian striker Marat Tareck and midfielder Rohen Singh providing the attacking impetus. Ahmed’s tactical acumen and understanding of knockout football, gained from his illustrious playing career across Indian football, could prove decisive.
“It’s going to be a tough match against NEROCA on their home ground. The entire ground will be cheering for them and we have to fight the mental battle. The atmosphere will be electric, but we know what’s required to get the three points,” Ahmed reflected on the challenge ahead.
The Group F standings make Saturday’s encounter a virtual knockout, with Indian Navy FT leading on three points, followed by both Real Kashmir and NEROCA on one point each, and TRAU FC bringing up the rear. A victory for either side would significantly boost their qualification chances, while a draw could leave both teams vulnerable depending on other results.
With East Bengal having already secured top spot in Group A and a quarterfinal berth, their focus shifts to building momentum and managing player fitness ahead of the knockout rounds. The Red and Gold Brigade’s clinical efficiency in front of goal – six goals scored without reply in two matches – has established them as early tournament favorites.
Both matches promise to deliver the drama and excitement that has made the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup a captivating spectacle, setting the stage perfectly for the business end of the tournament.
—
