Sreenidi Deccan FC and Shillong Lajong FC Share Points in IFL Clash

Match Overview

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India] May 10: In a crucial encounter in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26, Sreenidi Deccan FC and Shillong Lajong FC ended their match in a 1-1 stalemate at the Deccan Arena on Sunday.

First Half Highlights

David Castaeda opened the scoring for Deccan FC in the ninth minute, but the lead was equalized by Phrangki Buam, who converted a penalty in the second half. Rudra Ved from Shillong Lajong was named Player of the Match, as per a statement.

With this result, both teams now sit at 22 points each, while Diamond Harbour, currently leading with 28 points, can clinch the title in their next match against Dempo SC on May 17 with just a draw.

The home team took advantage of their early momentum, with Castaeda scoring after a well-placed cross from the left flank. Despite an initial clearance by Rudra Ved, Lalromawia recycled the ball, allowing Castaeda to execute an impressive acrobatic finish, marking his third goal of the championship phase.

Lalromawia was active on the right wing, creating several chances, but the Lajong defense held firm. Fabrice Kah also tested the Shillong goalkeeper with a powerful shot from outside the box, which was expertly saved.

On the other side, Figo Syndai's free-kick was the only shot on target for Shillong in the first half hour, as they struggled to break through Deccan's defense.

Second Half Action

In the second half, Shillong Lajong altered their strategy, focusing on short passes that disrupted Deccan's defensive shape. This tactical change paid off just before the hour mark when Phrangki Buam was fouled in the box, leading to a penalty that he successfully converted.

Following the equalizer, Lajong appeared more aggressive in their pursuit of a winning goal. Their best chance came from a set-piece, where Kitboklang Khyriem's cross found Kenstar Kharshong, whose shot was brilliantly saved by Kamaljit Singh.

As the match progressed, both teams sought a decisive goal, resulting in an exhilarating finish. Hadi Idrissou's header from a corner was saved by Ranit Sarkar, while at the other end, substitute Jakob Vanlalhimpuia was thwarted in a one-on-one situation by Kamaljit.

Kamaljit quickly distributed the ball to Sreenidi striker Paulo Cezar, whose shot was blocked by a defender. Despite a final opportunity for the home side, the match concluded with both teams sharing the points, leaving Diamond Harbour in a favorable position for the title.