Indian Super League (ISL): Sudeva FC hold Kerala Blasters at Indira Gandhi Athletics Stadium

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: Delhi's Sudeva FC played out 1-1 draw with Indian Super League (ISL) side Kerala Blasters in a Group 'D' game of the 131st Indian Oil Durand Cup Football at the Indira Gandhi Athletics Stadium here today

Md. Ajsal drew first blood for Sudeva, but a stunning strike from Mangku Kuki just three minutes later, ensured that both sides split points in their respective opening game of Asia's oldest tournament.

Sudeva coach Chencho Dorji made his attacking intentions clear from get go opting for a four-man midfield and a three-man forward line while the Blasters gaffer had no such illusions going in with a regulation 4-4-2. Sudeva dominated possession in the first half and had the larger share of attacks but could not press home the advantage.

It was then that the Kerala Blasters struck against the run of play with barely three minutes to go for the first half to end.

Md. Ajsal received the ball in front of the box and drove in, shooting from near the penalty spot area to beat keeper Kabir Kohli in the Sudeva goal.

The response was immediate. Mangku Kuki received the ball on the right from a quicky taken throw-in in the attacking third, controlled and then cut in to gracefully curl it into the top corner to draw parity. It was a top class finish at any level.

Sudeva continued to dominate possession in the second-half and created more chances but there was a period when both teams sat back and wanted to control possession which might have affected the end result.

In the next game NEUFC will face Army Green at the same venue on Sunday. The match will kick off at 3-00 PM.

Also Read: Durand Cup: Odisha FC to arrive in Guwahati city today

Also Watch: Droupadi Murmu Takes Oath As 15th President of India