The game at Kokrajhar was interrupted after 54 minutes due to waterlogged-pitch
Rajasthan United FC (RUFC) secured a hard-fought victory over Bodoland FC in the 132nd IndianOil Durand Cup. William Pauliankhum’s early second-half goal proved decisive for RUFC. The match took place at the SAI Stadium, Kokrajhar, and was preceded by an impressive cultural program and opening ceremony, graced by esteemed guests, including Hon. Minister of Defence, Shri. Rajnath Singh, and Hon. Chief Minister of Assam, Shri. Himanta Biswa Sarma. Both teams displayed resilience and skill, thrilling the enthusiastic crowd. The SAI Stadium was hosting its inaugural. However, rain affected it.
RUFC’s clinical finishing ensured a triumph over the resilient home team. In the first half, Rajasthan United FC took control of the midfield, enjoying better possession. Wingers William Pauliankhum and C. Lalchungnunga posed a threat to Bodoland’s defense. However, the defensive trio of Didem Hazowary, Rakesh Pradhan, and Anyichie Echezona put up a strong resistance, preventing clear-cut chances for RUFC.
Their best opportunity came from a corner. But their Captain, Hardik Bhatt, missed the chance from inside the six-yard box. Bodoland gained momentum towards the end of the half, creating promising opportunities. Ansumana Kromah had a clear chance to score but missed the target. Arjun Mardi came close to scoring twice, with one shot narrowly missing the post and another denied by the post. Bodoland’s attacking efforts added excitement to the match, making it an intriguing contest in the IndianOil Durand Cup.
Want all the Durand Cup results in one place? Here!
As the rain poured down, the players faced challenging conditions on the field. Despite the weather, Rajasthan United FC (RUFC) began the second half with the same intensity they showed in the first. Their efforts paid off quickly as they found the breakthrough in the 47th minute. Lalchungnunga, currently on loan from Hyderabad FC, set up Richardson Denzel on the right wing. The Ghanaian winger delivered a precise cross to find William Pauliankhum on the far post, who calmly tapped the ball into the net, granting RUFC the lead. The goal showcased RUFC’s determination and teamwork, setting the stage for an enthralling second half in the Durand Cup clash.
The tournament debutants had a chance to equalize when William Opoku had a clear opportunity, but goalkeeper Sachin Jha made an impressive point-blank save to deny the local side. However, the match faced a suspension in the 52nd minute due to continuous heavy rains. After the break, the game resumed, and the score remained unchanged until the full-time whistle. Rajasthan United FC (RUFC), last year’s quarterfinalists, secured a winning start to their campaign in the IndianOil Durand Cup with a 1-0 victory over Bodoland FC. The weather-induced suspense and resumption added drama to the match, making it an eventful start to the tournament for RUFC.
