Dempo SC and Sreenidi Deccan FC Set for Thrilling IFL Finale

Final Showdown in the Indian Football League

Dempo SC is gearing up to take on Sreenidi Deccan FC in their concluding Championship Phase match of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26. This exciting encounter is scheduled for Friday at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, kicking off at 18:30 IST. Fans can catch the live broadcast on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, with streaming options available on Waves and Sony LIV, according to an official announcement from the IFL.

High Spirits for Both Teams

Both teams are entering this match with a positive mindset, eager to finish their seasons on a high note following commendable performances in their last games.

Dempo's morale is boosted after they managed a 1-1 draw against league leaders Diamond Harbour FC in their previous match. Although this result helped Diamond Harbour clinch the title, Dempo's performance was noteworthy.

Head coach Samir Naik expressed his contentment with the team's effort in the last game, emphasizing the need to build on their strengths. "We had opportunities to secure a win. In the next match, we will approach it positively, reflecting on our last performance," Naik stated.

Defender Mohamed Ali echoed this sentiment, noting the positive dynamics within the team as they head into the season's final match. "We started positively, but we have come together even more now. Our improvement has been significant lately," he remarked.

Sreenidi Deccan FC's Confidence

Sreenidi Deccan FC is also riding high on confidence after their recent 2-1 victory over Chanmari FC, with goals from Lalromawia and David Castaneda Munoz contributing to their success.

Head coach Carlos Vaz Pinto acknowledged the challenge posed by Dempo, praising their growth throughout the season. "Dempo is one of the top teams in the IFL this year. They have quality players and are improving with each game. Expectations are high for them after a strong previous season, and they have an experienced coach and talented players, making them a tough opponent," Pinto commented.

Defender Hadi Idrissou emphasized the need for focus until the season's end, reflecting on his performances. "I can't comment on my performance; I just do my job and let others judge. I need to keep pushing until the end," Idrissou stated.

Implications of the Final Match

As both teams prepare for their last match of the season, securing a strong finish is paramount. Currently, Dempo sits sixth in the Championship Phase standings with 14 points and could rise to fifth with a win, surpassing Chanmari FC, which finished with 15 points. Sreenidi, on the other hand, is in third place with 25 points, tied with second-placed Shillong Lajong FC. A victory for Sreenidi, combined with Shillong dropping points against Diamond Harbour, could see them finish as runners-up.

Key Players to Watch

Both teams are expected to play with an attacking mindset, given the low pressure surrounding this fixture. An early goal could be crucial in establishing dominance.

Dempo will rely on their dynamic duo, Joseph and Sebastian Gutierrez, to lead the attack. Joseph is currently the joint-top scorer in the IFL 2025-26 with eight goals and one assist, while Gutierrez has contributed two goals and two assists. Seigoumang Doungel is anticipated to play a vital role on the wings.

Defensively, the experienced pair of Jose Luis Moreno and Aubin Kouakou will anchor the backline, supported by Pruthvesh Pednekar and Darell Mascarenhas in the full-back positions.

Sreenidi also boasts significant attacking talent, with Munoz and Fabrice Kah Nkwoh likely to lead the charge. Munoz has netted five goals and provided one assist this season, while Nkwoh has three goals and one assist to his name. Lalromawia, fresh off his recent goal, and Brandon Vanlalremdika are expected to add width and creativity from the flanks.

With both teams eager to conclude their seasons positively and carry momentum into the next, an exciting match is anticipated in Fatorda.