Delhi FC Wins I-League 2 Championship, Bengaluru United Secures Promotion

Delhi Football Club Clinches I-League 2 Title

Delhi Football Club has been crowned the champions of the I-League 2 for the 2025-26 season, earning their promotion back to the Indian Football League (IFL) for the 2026-27 season after a 1-1 draw against United SC at Kalyani Stadium.

In a significant match at the Neville D'Souza Ground in Mumbai, FC Bengaluru United also played to a 1-1 draw against GMSC, a result that confirmed Bengaluru's promotion while allowing GMSC to avoid relegation. GMSC, which started the day in the relegation zone with four points, managed to secure a crucial point, bringing their total to five and leveling with NEROCA FC. However, GMSC's superior head-to-head record ensured their survival in I-League 2. Both FC Bengaluru United and United SC finished the season with 15 points, but Bengaluru advanced due to a better goal difference, extending United SC's wait for a return to the second tier to 12 years.

Match Highlights: Delhi FC vs United SC

*United Sports Club - 1 (Susovan Ghosh 54') | Delhi Football Club - 1 (Himanshu Jangra 67')*

At Kalyani Stadium, United SC began strongly, attacking the Delhi FC goal with players like M. Sreenath and M. Arunlal leading the charge. The first shot on target came from Amil, whose long-range attempt was easily saved by the Delhi goalkeeper. United SC's fluid play kept the Delhi defense on edge, with Amil Naim creating chances down the left flank. Despite several promising attacks, both teams went into halftime without scoring.

United SC took the lead shortly after the break with a powerful header from Susovan Ghosh following a corner kick. However, Delhi FC equalized in the 66th minute through a well-executed play, with Himanshu Jangra tapping in from close range after a setup by Samson Keishing. United SC pushed for a winning goal but couldn't find the net, while Delhi FC held on for the draw, securing their championship title.

Bengaluru United and GMSC's Crucial Stalemate

*GMSC, Mumbai - 1 (Shravan Shetty 47') | FC Bengaluru United - 1 (Lijo K 4')*

FC Bengaluru United struck early in the fourth minute with a goal from Lijo K, who finished a well-placed cross from Shunjanthan Ragui. GMSC gradually found their rhythm, with Kean Lewis creating opportunities down the left. Their best chance came in the 18th minute but was thwarted by Bengaluru's goalkeeper.

GMSC equalized shortly after halftime when Shravan Shetty capitalized on a free-kick that slipped through the goalkeeper's hands. Both teams sought a winner, but clear chances were limited. The draw allowed FC Bengaluru United to secure second place in the standings, edging out United SC on goal difference, while GMSC managed to avoid relegation.