Diamond Harbour FC Claims Historic First Win in Indian Football League

In a landmark moment for Diamond Harbour FC, the team secured their first-ever victory in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 by defeating Dempo SC 2-1. The match, held at Kalyani Stadium, saw Antonio Moyano score just before halftime, followed by an equalizer from Dempo's Marcus Joseph. However, Hugo Diaz's decisive goal in the 70th minute sealed the win for Diamond Harbour. This thrilling encounter showcased the team's resilience and determination, marking a significant milestone in their football journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 8, 2026, 21:16 IST

Diamond Harbour FC Achieves Milestone Victory

In a thrilling match at Kalyani Stadium on Sunday, Diamond Harbour FC celebrated their inaugural victory in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26, defeating Dempo SC with a score of 2-1. The home team took the lead just before halftime, thanks to a goal from Antonio Moyano. Although Dempo's Marcus Joseph equalized in the second half, Hugo Diaz's goal in the 70th minute secured the win for Diamond Harbour, as reported in a press release.

Changes in Team Lineup

Head coach Kibu Vicuna made two significant changes to the Diamond Harbour starting lineup, introducing Hugo Diaz and Halicharan Narzary in place of Bryce Brian Miranda and Pintu Mahata. On the other hand, Dempo SC's coach Samir Subash Naik opted for three changes, bringing in Jose Luis Moreno Pena, Amay Morajkar, and Knerkitalang Buam to replace Vieri Colaco, Richmond Kwasi Owusu, and Seigoumang Doungel.

First Half Highlights

The match began with Dempo creating a few opportunities in the first ten minutes, but Diamond Harbour quickly regained control. The home side dominated possession and dictated the pace of the game, yet struggled to convert their chances into goals. The breakthrough came in the dying moments of the first half (45+4'), when Antonio Moyano executed a stunning scoop shot over the goalkeeper during a swift counter-attack, giving Diamond Harbour a 1-0 lead at halftime.

Exciting Second Half Seals the Win

The second half was filled with excitement as both teams sought to score. Dempo responded with vigor, leveling the match in the 55th minute. Trinidadian forward Marcus Leric Jr Joseph displayed his skill by maneuvering past two defenders and finishing calmly to make it 1-1. In search of a winning goal, Coach Vicuna made a strategic substitution that proved effective just two minutes later. In the 70th minute, substitute Bryce Brian Miranda sent a precise cross into the box, allowing Hugo Diaz Rodriguez to find the net with a well-placed shot, restoring Diamond Harbour's lead.

Dempo nearly equalized again in the 76th minute, but the crossbar denied Joseph a second goal. With seven minutes of added time, Dempo intensified their efforts, but Diamond Harbour's defense held strong, securing a historic 2-1 victory.