Namdhari Sports Club Secures First Victory in Indian Football League

Namdhari Sports Club Triumphs Over Real Kashmir FC

In a thrilling encounter at the TRC Stadium in Srinagar on Wednesday, Namdhari Sports Club clinched their inaugural victory of the Indian Football League 2025-26 season, defeating Real Kashmir FC 1-0. Seilenthang Lotjem's second-half goal propelled Namdhari SC to sixth place in the standings, accumulating six points from five matches, while Real Kashmir FC remains in ninth with just two points from the same number of games. Niraj Kumar, the Namdhari goalkeeper, was honored as the Man of the Match.

Changes in Team Line-ups

For their first home match of the season, Real Kashmir FC's Assistant Coach Masood Maqbool implemented two changes to the starting lineup. Shahid Nazir replaced the suspended Habib Fofana in defense, and Marius Obekop took the place of Seijoseph Haokip in the attack. On the other hand, Namdhari SC's Head Coach Harpeet Singh made a single adjustment, reinstating Lamine Moro from suspension in place of Manbir Singh.

First Half Ends Without Goals

The opening half saw both teams struggle to dominate midfield, leading to numerous turnovers. Set-pieces emerged as the primary opportunity for both sides, with Real Kashmir utilizing long throw-ins while Namdhari aimed to exploit free-kicks and corners.

The first half featured limited threats to either goal. Najib Ibrahim tested Real Kashmir's goalkeeper Furkan Ahmad Dar with a low shot from outside the box, while Niraj Kumar had to make an acrobatic save after Karan Kumar Sharma's misdirected clearance posed a danger.

The best chance for the home team came from a delivery into the box. After a weak punch from Niraj Kumar, Ahteeb Ahmad Dar attempted a bicycle kick that seemed destined for the net, but Karan Sharma's crucial clearance off the line ensured the teams went into halftime without scoring.

Lotjem Scores the Winning Goal

The Snow Leopards entered the second half with increased determination, gaining better control in midfield and posing a greater threat in the attacking third. Shedrack Charles nearly broke the deadlock, hitting the crossbar with his shot.

Namdhari finally took the lead shortly after the hour mark, thanks to Seilenthang Lotjem. A cross from substitute Manbir Singh found Lotjem, who made a perfectly timed run into the six-yard box and calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.

Real Kashmir's Efforts to Equalize Fall Short

In pursuit of an equalizer, Real Kashmir intensified their efforts after falling behind. Shedrack Charles tested the Namdhari goalkeeper with a powerful shot that was deflected to safety. Moments later, Niraj Kumar showcased his skills again, saving Kamal Issah's free-kick that took an unpredictable bounce.

Despite the visitors facing relentless pressure from the home side, they managed to maintain their narrow lead until the final whistle. Namdhari's resolute defense effectively thwarted Real Kashmir's attempts, leaving the hosts still searching for their first win of the season.