Sreenidi Deccan FC Triumphs Over Dempo SC in IFL Showdown

Sreenidi Deccan FC delivered a stellar performance against Dempo SC, winning 3-1 in the Indian Football League. The match saw Sreenidi take an early lead, with key contributions from players like R Lalbiakliana and Hadi Idrissou. Despite a red card reducing Sreenidi to ten men, they managed to secure their victory. This win places Sreenidi at the top of the league standings, while Dempo struggles at the bottom. Discover more about the match dynamics and key moments in our detailed coverage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 26, 2026, 02:06 IST

Sreenidi Deccan FC Claims Victory Against Dempo SC

In a thrilling encounter at the Deccan Arena in Hyderabad on Wednesday, Sreenidi Deccan FC showcased an impressive performance, defeating Dempo SC 3-1 in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26. This victory 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.

From the outset, Carlos Vaz Pinto's team seized control of the match. A throw-in from Jagdeep Singh on the left led to a deflection in the box, allowing right winger R Lalbiakliana to swiftly capitalize with a left-footed shot from a tight angle, putting Sreenidi ahead.

Sreenidi continued to apply pressure, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Goalkeeper Ashish Sibi made crucial saves to thwart David Castaneda, including a sharp stop from close range in the 20th minute and a diving save to deny his header shortly after. Following a corner, Castaneda's header hit the post.

The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when Hadi Idrissou, a centre-back for the Deccan Warriors, extended the lead. Winger Lalromawia delivered a precise cross from the right, allowing Idrissou to rise and head the ball into the net, making it 2-0.

In an effort to respond, Dempo's head coach Samir Naik brought on 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 test goalkeeper Kamaljit Singh with a curling shot in the 42nd minute, but Singh was up to the task.

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 the ball 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 pressed on, 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 a ten-man side, Dempo could not penetrate Sreenidi's solid defense, concluding the match with a 3-1 victory.