Debutant Samaleswari Sporting pulled off a major surprise by defeating two-time champion Mohammedan Sporting Club 3-2 in a thrilling Group B match of the 135th Durand Cup at the Salt Lake Stadium here on Sunday.

The Sambalpur-based side made an impressive start, taking a two-goal lead before half-time through strikes from Basit Ahmed Bhat and Russian forward Marat Tareck. Mohammedan SC responded strongly after the break, with Lalthankima and Lalngaihsaka finding the net to level the scores by the 66th minute.

Just when the match appeared headed for a draw, Veer Arjun Joshi produced a fine free-kick in the 81st minute to restore Samaleswari’s lead and seal a memorable victory.

Mohammedan SC’s substitute Adison Singh was red-carded in injury time.

The win saw Samaleswari complete its group campaign with six points from three matches to finish atop the table. Mohammedan SC remained second with three points from two matches. The race for qualification from the group remains open as Indian Army (also on three points after beating Samaleswari in the opening match) still has two matches left to play.

The result: Group B: Mohammedan SC 2 (Lalthankima 60, Lalngaihsaka 66) lost to Samaleswari Sporting 3 (Basit Bhat 11, Marat Tareck 27, Veer Arjun Joshi 81).