Ghanaian attacker, Rahim Osumanu was on target for Gokulam Kerala in their 2-2 draw against Army Red in a Group D match of the 130th Durand Cup on Sunday.
The 26-year-old put up an impressive performance as the defending champions started their title defense with a draw at Kalyani Stadium.
Osumanu opened the scoring for Kerala in the 9th minute with a spectacular goal from long-range.
Things became difficult for Gokulam when their first-choice goalkeeper Rakshit Dagar had to be replaced after a nasty collision with Army Red’s Mukesh Kumar.
With substitute Ajmal P. A. under the bar, Gokulam Kerala’s citadel fell soon. Army Red equalised at the half-hour mark through P. Jatin before Bikash Thapa secured the lead just before the interval.
Gokulam Kerala regrouped in the second half but had to wait till the 70th minute when its Afghanistan recruit Sharif M. Mohammad scored from a penalty.
The Malabarians had several close chances in the final quarter but failed to convert any and would be the more disappointing side for sure.
Their next game is against Hyderabad FC who are in red hot form.