Spaniard andy garcia

Shillong Lajong FC: Defending champions NorthEast United FC produced a commanding performance to overpower Bodoland FC 4–0 in front of a packed SAI Stadium, marching into the semi-finals of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup. Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie struck a brace, while Spaniard Andy Garcia and substitute Parthib Gogoi added their names to the scoresheet, as the Highlanders set up a mouthwatering last-four clash against Shillong Lajong FC.

Vikash Panthi fielded a settled 4-2-3-1 lineup with Diamary in goal and Robinson leading the line, supported by Pranjal and Gwgwmsar Gayary on the flanks. NEUFC head coach Juan Pedro Benali, reverting to his strong XI after resting players in the group finale, deployed his familiar 4-3-3 with skipper Miguel Zabaco marshalling the backline, Gurmeet Singh in goal, and a potent frontline of Ajaraie, Jithin MS, and Lalrinzuala.

The opening quarter-hour saw both teams exchange blows in a frenetic, end-to-end contest. Robinson, Pranjal, and Urjoy Brahma tested Gurmeet at one end, while Ajaraie, Lalrinzuala, and Andy forced Diamary into sharp saves at the other. In the 17th minute, Andy’s curling free kick from the right nearly crept in, but Diamary parried away at the near post.