ITANAGAR, Aug 9: Chandranagar FC and Gohpur Sporting Club became the first two teams to reach the semifinals of the Independence Day running trophy football tournament.
Chandranagar FC came from a goal behind to defeat Mining Colony FC 2-1 in the first quarterfinal played at the KV No 2 playground here on Friday.
Mining Colony were leading the game 1-0 at halftime with a 9 minute goal from Dejum Doni, but could not hold on to their lead.
Chandranagar FC’s Niktar Bhai scored two goals in the second half, which not only took the game away from Mining Colony but also secured Chandranagar FC a semifinal berth.
Gohpur Sporting Club also came from a goal down to eke out a hard-fought 2-1 win over IX Pirates FC and secure their semifinal berth.
IX Pirates FC took 13 minutes into the play to score a goal by Likha Oum. Gohpur SC restored the parity 18 minutes later in the same half and the goal was scored by Tanu Rai.
Tatung Lingkesh netted the match winner in the second half.
On Saturday, Panthers FC will meet T-Group in the third quarterfinal at 2 pm, before Tara SC take on Champions FC at 3:30 pm for the third and fourth semifinal spots, according to the organizers.