Dempo Sports Club Secures First Victory in Indian Football League with 3-0 Win

Dempo Triumphs Over Shillong Lajong in IFL Match

Goa (Panaji) [India], April 7: Dempo Sports Club celebrated their inaugural victory of the Star Cement Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 season, defeating Shillong Lajong FC with a decisive score of 3-0 at the PJN Stadium on Tuesday.

Despite Shillong Lajong controlling most of the possession during the match, they struggled to create significant scoring opportunities, as Dempo's defense held firm. This win marked a crucial milestone for Dempo SC, bringing their points total to six, while Birendra Thapa's team remained in fourth place with 11 points, according to a press release from the IFL.

Under the guidance of Samir Naik, Dempo started aggressively, testing the Shillong defense early on. The first goal came in the sixth minute when Marcus Joseph skillfully controlled a high ball from Lajong defender Rudra Ved at the edge of the box, unleashing a powerful left-footed shot that found the back of the net.

The Golden Eagles extended their lead in the 24th minute, thanks to a cross from left-back Saiesh Bagkar. A momentary lapse from goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai allowed the ball to deflect off Kapil Hoble and into the goal, making it 2-0.

Shillong Lajong sought to respond before halftime, with Phrangki Buam coming closest to scoring, but his header was expertly tipped over the bar by Ashish Sibi, allowing Dempo to maintain their comfortable lead at the break.

After the interval, Dempo continued their strong performance and earned a penalty in the 53rd minute when Rymbai fouled Bagkar inside the box. Richmond Kwasi Owusu confidently converted the penalty in the 55th minute, increasing the lead to 3-0.

In pursuit of a consolation goal, Shillong Lajong pushed forward, creating several half-chances through substitutes and set-pieces, but they were unable to find the finishing touch in the final third.

Dempo had chances to further increase their lead in the closing moments, with substitute Cristian Damian Perez and Sebastian Gutierrez both coming close, but the score remained unchanged.