NorthEast United FC showcased their football prowess, moving ahead to the Durand Cup quarterfinals following a commanding 3-1 win against Downtown Heroes on Sunday. The game took an unexpected turn early on when Parvaj Bhuiya netted a goal for Downtown in the mere 8th minute, giving them an advantage. Maintaining this lead, Downtown concluded the first half leading by a goal.
Nevertheless, the tide shifted post half-time with NorthEast United taking the reins. Ibson Melo's goal in the 48th minute squared things up. This momentum was soon capitalized upon when Romain Philippoteaux fired a goal in the 52nd minute, snatching the lead for NorthEast. The nail in the coffin for Downtown Heroes came with Parthib Gogoi's exemplary goal in the 78th minute, ensuring NorthEast's victory.
Although sitting second in the group with seven points, NorthEast is only behind FC Goa due to goal difference, with the latter also progressing to the quarterfinals.
Downtown's initial lead was a result of an oversight by goalie Mirshad, which Bhuiya took full advantage of. As Downtown intensified their offensive strategy, Mirshad redeemed himself, preventing them from widening their lead. The game dynamic changed when Parthib Gogoi was introduced in the second half, leading to Melo's equalizing goal. A well-coordinated attack from NorthEast and a blunder by Downtown facilitated Philippoteaux's successful goal.
After consistently dominating the game, Gogoi's stellar solo performance resulted in the clinching goal for NorthEast. Downtown's subsequent attempts failed to pose any significant challenge.
In another enthralling match of the day, Mohammedan Sporting delivered a masterclass, thrashing Jamshedpur FC 6-0 in Kolkata. Lalremsanga Fanai started the goal rally for Mohammedan, followed by David Lalhlansanga's impressive four-goal performance.
Yet, despite this dominating win, Mohammedan couldn't secure a spot in the quarterfinals. Finishing behind Mumbai City FC in Group B and falling short by a goal behind Mohun Bagan SG in the second-placed teams' ranking, they faced further setbacks with NorthEast United FC's victory over Downtown Heroes.
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