ONGC booked their maiden Durand Cup semi-finals berth, upsetting I-League runners-up Pune FC 2-1 in a quarter-final league match at the Ambedkar Stadium here on Friday.
Nigerian striker Henry Ezeh scored twice, a penalty kick conversion in the 59th minute and a solo goal a minute later, to put ONGC in an enviable position. A depleted Pune FC reduced the margin in the 62nd minute via substitute striker Diganta Khaddar, who found the net off a deflection.
ONGC topped Group IV with six points from two matches, while Army Red (three) and Pune FC (none) were eliminated.
ONGC will now meet the winners of Group II, either Indian Navy or Bhawanipur, in the semi-final on September 17.
Earlier, fancied Kolkata outfit, Bhawanipur, who include former Mohun Bagan legend Jose Ramirez Baretto in their line-up were held to a goalless draw by Indian Navy.
Indian Navy now top Group II with four points from two matches. Bhawanipur are second with a point from one game.
On Saturday, Mohammedan Sporting will take on Kolkata rivals Kalighat Milan Sangha in a must-win encounter. Both teams are on three points each.