Sreenidi Deccan FC Triumphs Over Dempo SC in IFL Showdown

Sreenidi Deccan FC Claims Victory

In a commanding performance, Sreenidi Deccan FC secured a 3-1 victory against Dempo SC during the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 at the Deccan Arena in Hyderabad on Wednesday. This win propelled Sreenidi to the top of the league standings with 10 points from five matches, while Dempo SC remains at the bottom with just two points. The match began with Carlos Vaz Pinto's team quickly establishing dominance. A throw-in from Jagdeep Singh on the left led to a deflection in the box, allowing right winger R Lalbiakliana to capitalize with a left-footed shot from a tight angle, giving Sreenidi an early lead.

First Half Highlights

Sreenidi continued to apply pressure, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Goalkeeper Ashish Sibi made crucial saves to deny David Castaneda, including a close-range stop in the 20th minute and a diving save to block a header shortly after. Following a corner, Castaneda's header hit the post, but the relentless pressure paid off in the 29th minute when centre-back Hadi Idrissou extended the lead. Winger Lalromawia provided a precise cross from the right, allowing Idrissou to head in and make it 2-0.

In an attempt to respond, Dempo's head coach Samir Naik brought in Marcus Joseph midway through the first half, adding attacking vigor. However, Sreenidi's midfield, anchored by Ajay Chhetri and Pape Gassama, effectively controlled the game, limiting Dempo's scoring chances. Joseph did manage to test goalkeeper Kamaljit Singh with a curling shot in the 42nd minute, but Singh was up to the task.

Dempo's Attempted Comeback

After halftime, the Golden Eagles displayed increased determination and were rewarded in the 60th minute. Midfielder Knerkitalang Buam delivered a cross to the far post, where forward Richmond Kwasi Owusu headed it in, narrowing the score to 2-1.

The match took a dramatic turn in the 68th minute when Sreenidi's Lalromawia received a red card for violent conduct, leaving the hosts with ten players. Nevertheless, Sreenidi quickly countered. Ajay Chhetri regained possession in midfield and set up forward Fabrice Kah Nkwoh, who calmly slotted the ball past the keeper, restoring the two-goal lead.

Dempo continued to press forward, with Amay Morajkar testing Kamaljit Singh from distance in the 81st minute, but the Sreenidi goalkeeper tipped the shot over the bar. Despite having more possession against ten men, Dempo could not penetrate Sreenidi's solid defense, concluding the match with a 3-1 victory.