Peren staged a thrilling second-half comeback to defeat Tseminyu 2-1 in Match 14 of the Dr. T Ao Trophy 2025 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, on Wednesday morning. The result also ensured the 2024 finalists a place in the quarterfinals of the tournament from Group D, alongside Kohima. The hero of the match was substitute Nrakhak, whose sensational brace turned the tide in Peren’s favor.
Tseminyu started on the front foot, dominating possession and pushing high up the pitch. Their pressure paid off in the 22nd minute when Japhet Kath sliced through the defense to score a well-taken opener. Peren, sluggish in the first half, found renewed energy after the break.
The match flipped on its head with the introduction of Nrakhak, who equalized in the 64th minute with a sharp close-range finish. Just six minutes later, he struck again, calmly converting his second and putting Peren ahead. Tseminyu responded with urgency but were repeatedly denied by a resolute Peren defense.
A yellow card to Hiti Seb in the 33rd minute was the only blemish in an otherwise high-spirited contest. While Tseminyu will lament a missed opportunity, Peren’s grit and the brilliance of their super-sub sealed a vital victory in Group D.
With today’s result, the qualification standings in Group D are now straightforward, as Kohima and Peren have secured unassailable leads with six points each, while Tseminyu and Meluri remain without a point after two matches each. Tseminyu lost 0-3 to Kohima in the tournament opener, while Peren defeated Meluri 4-1 in their first match.
Kohima currently tops the Group D table on goal difference. Kohima and Peren will face each other on August 8 to determine the group winner; a draw would see Kohima advance as group leaders. Meanwhile, Tseminyu and Meluri will play a dead rubber on August 7.
