Dempo SC and Real Kashmir FC Share Spoils in Thrilling 2-2 Draw
Exciting Match Ends in Draw
In an exhilarating encounter at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, Dempo SC and Real Kashmir FC played to a 2-2 draw in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 on Sunday. The match featured a dramatic finish to the first half, where Mohammad Inam's spectacular goal was equalized by a penalty from Marcus Joseph, both occurring in stoppage time. Following this, Aubin Kouakou and Shedrack Charles exchanged goals in a swift one-minute sequence shortly after the hour mark, ensuring both teams left with a point.
Intense First Half with Injury and Late Goals
Dempo SC started strong, dominating possession, but clear chances were few. A significant setback occurred early on when captain Ariston Costa suffered a serious head injury and had to be taken off in an ambulance, with Knerkitalang Buam replacing him. Despite this challenge, Dempo continued to push forward, with Richmond Kwasi Owusu forcing a save from the opposing goalkeeper.
The first goal came unexpectedly in the second minute of first-half stoppage time (45+2'). Real Kashmir's left-winger, Mohammad Inam, struck a brilliant curling shot that left the goalkeeper helpless, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead.
Dempo was awarded a penalty just before halftime when Real Kashmir's goalkeeper, Sayad Bin Abdul Kadir, fouled a player in the box. Marcus Joseph confidently converted the penalty in injury time, leveling the score at 1-1 as the teams headed into the break.
Quick Goals Keep the Match Balanced
Dempo regained the lead shortly after the hour mark. In the 61st minute, Sebastian Gutierrez delivered a well-placed corner that found Aubin Kouakou, who headed the ball into the net, putting Dempo ahead 2-1.
However, Real Kashmir responded just a minute later. A quick counter-attack, coupled with a defensive error from Dempo, allowed Shedrack Charles to score with a precise finish, equalizing the match at 2-2 in the 62nd minute.
Final Push for Victory
Both teams made tactical substitutions in search of a winning goal. Dempo introduced Laximanrao Rane and Amay Morajkar, while Real Kashmir brought on Basit Ahmed Bhat and Djibril Fandje Toure.
In the final moments, with five minutes of added time, Dempo pressed hard for a late winner, attacking the visitors' goal. Marcus Joseph made a well-timed run, evading the offside trap and breaking into the box. However, after rounding goalkeeper Ashish Sibi, his curling shot went just wide of the target. Ultimately, both teams settled for a 2-2 draw, earning a point each.