Jamshedpur FC and NorthEast United FC secured their spots in the quarterfinals of the 134th Durand Cup with solid performances on Friday. Jamshedpur FC triumphed 2-0 over Ladakh FC, while defending champions NorthEast United FC edged past Shillong Lajong FC 2-1.

Jamshedpur FC’s 2-0 Win Over Ladakh FC

Jamshedpur FC dominated possession and created several opportunities in their match against Ladakh FC. An own goal by Ladakh’s defender Siju in the 28th minute gave Jamshedpur the lead. Shortly after the break, Praful doubled their advantage, scoring in the 46th minute from a free-kick scramble.

Head coach Khalid Ahmed Jamil made two changes to the starting lineup, bringing in Suhair VP and Sarthak Goloui, while Ladakh’s Rajan Mani named an unchanged side. Despite missing an early chance, Praful‘s goal ensured the victory, and Jamshedpur FC sealed the game with controlled possession to make it three wins from three, securing their place in the last eight.

NorthEast United FC Defeat Shillong Lajong FC 2-1

In Shillong, Al-Alaeddine Ajaraie continued his stellar form with a brace, leading NorthEast United FC to a 2-1 victory over Shillong Lajong FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Ajaraie scored in the 5th minute after receiving a perfect through ball from new signing Jose Manuel Nunez Martin, calmly finishing past Lajong’s goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai.

Although Shillong Lajong equalized in the 81st minute through substitute Figo Syndai, who scored a header from a curling cross by Saveme Tariang, Ajaraie struck again just minutes later. He received a pass just outside the box, turned past Kenstar Kharshong, and curled a precise shot into the top corner, bringing his tournament tally to five goals.

This win put NorthEast United FC at the top of Group E with six points, securing their spot in the quarterfinals with a game to spare, thanks to a better head-to-head record over Shillong Lajong FC.

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