Indian Army FT vs Assam Rifles FT, Durand Cup 2024: Indian Army get easy 3-0 win against Assam Rifles

Add as a preferred source on Google

Alan Thapa and Sunil B’s spectacular goals, along with a penalty conversion by Pradeep Singh, helped the Indian Army Football Team secure a 3-0 victory against Assam Rifles FT in a Durand Cup 2024 Group D match at the JRD Tata Sports Complex. This win moves the Army team to second place in the group, just behind Jamshedpur FC, who have a superior goal difference.

Assam Rifles Head Coach Vikash Panthi fielded a young team, while Army coach Manish Wahi opted for an experienced lineup, retaining the core squad that won the 2023-24 Santosh Trophy, led by Alan Thapa and Samir Murmu in attack.

The Army team used their experience effectively, pressing high and dominating possession, with Thapa, Murmu, and Rahul Ramakrishnan creating numerous opportunities. Despite a strong performance from Assam Rifles' goalkeeper Shobhan Dev Biswas, the Army took an early lead in the 7th minute with a long-range strike from Alan Thapa.

In the second half, the Army increased their offensive pressure. Although Shobhan saved two penalties, Pradeep Singh's third attempt was successful, doubling the lead. Assam Rifles had chances to equalize but lacked the finishing touch. In the final moments, defender Sunil B sealed the win with a brilliant 25-yard strike into the top left corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.