Durand Cup: DSK Shivajians and Aizawl FC enter semifinals

In Durand Cup, Mizoram-based Aizawl FC overcame Army Red 1-0 thanks to a goal from Ghanaian striker Bright Middleton Menos while Pune's DSK Shivajians beat Army Green to top its group.

Early goals from Spanish midfielder Juan Quero Barrasso was enough to help DSK shivajians past Army Green.

I-League teams Aizawal FC and DSK Shivajians entered the semifinals after hard-fought wins over Army teams in the 128th Durand football tournament here today.

At the Ambedkar stadium, Aizawl FC overcame Army Red 1-0, with its Ghanaian striker Bright Middleton Menos scoring the match winner in the 52nd minute with a crisp volley on the run, following a chipped pass from the left by Brandon Vanlalremidika.

Aizawl has reached the semifinals with nine points from four matches in Pool B. Neroca FC (Manipur) is likely to join the side from Mizoram in the semifinals. Army Red is also on five points.

At the Harbaksh Singh stadium, DSK Shivajians secured a win thanks to a brace by its short-statured Spanish midfielder Juan Quero Barrasso in the 6th and 10th minute. Army Green's 's striker N. Herojit Singh reduced the margin in the 36th minute but team from Pune held its nerves to close out a victory.

With this win DSK has reached 10 points from 5 matches in Pool A and is certain to top the group. Army Green is third with five points.