The Snow Leopards roared loud and clear in Imphal as Real Kashmir FC outclassed NEROCA FC 3–1 in a spirited Group F encounter of the Durand Cup 2025 at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium. Salam Ranjan Singh lit up the first half with a thunderous strike in the 32nd minute, putting the visitors ahead and silencing the home stands.
NEROCA found a glimmer of hope when Lucas powered in a towering header in the 67th minute, sending the local crowd into a frenzy. But that joy was short-lived — just three minutes later, Tareck struck to reclaim the lead for Real Kashmir, breaking NEROCA’s momentum. As the match entered its final stages, M. Mbengue applied the finishing touch with a calm, clinical goal, sealing a statement victory.
With this commanding win, Real Kashmir stormed to the top of Group F, keeping their quarterfinal dreams burning bright. For NEROCA, the defeat marks a bitter end to their campaign — winless after two earlier draws — leaving the home supporters to ponder what could have been. The evening belonged to the Snow Leopards, who left Imphal with their heads high, their confidence soaring, and their Durand Cup hopes very much alive.
The group’s next key fixture will see TRAU FC face Indian Navy on 12 August 2025 at 10:30 UTC, a clash that could prove decisive in shaping the final Group F standings.
