Daijiworld Media Network - Bambolim

Bambolim, Nov 6: Rajasthan United FC’s semi-final hopes came to an end after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Sporting Club Delhi in their final Group D clash of the AIFF Super Cup at the GMC Stadium on Thursday.

The Desert Warriors looked in control after Pedro Astray (22’) and Robinson Blandon (35’) scored in the first half to give them a 2-0 lead. However, SC Delhi mounted a spirited comeback, with Sourav pulling one back in the 61st minute and Alan Saji (90+4’) netting a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser to secure their side’s first point of the tournament.

Rajasthan United, who needed a big win to stay in contention for a semi-final berth, finished the group stage with four points. SC Delhi ended at the bottom with a solitary point. Later in the day, Kerala Blasters and Mumbai City will battle for the top spot and the final semi-final slot at Fatorda.

Rajasthan United started aggressively, pushing forward in search of goals. Their persistence paid off in the 22nd minute when Astray headed in Lalfelkima’s corner. Just 13 minutes later, Blandon doubled the advantage, finishing off a sharp move initiated by Astray and Alan Thapa.

The momentum shifted after the break as SC Delhi came out stronger. In the 61st minute, Andrei Alba’s precise through ball found Sourav, who finished neatly past Rajasthan goalkeeper James Kithan to make it 2-1.

Despite Rajasthan’s efforts to regain control, Delhi’s late pressure paid off in stoppage time. Alba’s cross from the right found Alan Saji, who chested the ball into the net from close range to level the scores and deny Rajasthan United a place in the semi-finals.