Namdhari Sports Club Secures First Win of the Season Against Real Kashmir FC
Namdhari Sports Club Triumphs in Indian Football League
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 25: A decisive goal from Seilenthang Lotjem in the second half propelled Namdhari Sports Club to a 1-0 victory over Real Kashmir FC, marking their inaugural win of the Indian Football League 2025-26 at the TRC Stadium on Wednesday.
This win elevated 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. Namdhari's goalkeeper, Niraj Kumar, was honored as the Man of the Match.
In preparation for their first home match of the season, Real Kashmir FC Assistant Coach Masood Maqbool made two adjustments to the starting lineup, bringing in Shahid Nazir to bolster defense in place of the suspended Habib Fofana, and opting for Marius Obekop in attack over Seijoseph Haokip.
On the other hand, Namdhari SC's Head Coach Harpeet Singh made a single change, reinstating Lamine Moro from suspension to replace Manbir Singh.
The initial phase of the match saw both teams struggle for dominance in midfield, leading to numerous turnovers during the first half hour.
Set-pieces emerged as the most effective strategy for both sides, with Real Kashmir utilizing long throw-ins while Namdhari aimed to exploit free-kick opportunities and corner kicks.
Both goalkeepers faced minimal threats in the first half, with isolated attempts at either end. Najib Ibrahim tested Real Kashmir's Furkan Ahmad Dar with a low shot from the edge of the box, while Niraj Kumar had to react swiftly to a misdirected clearance from Karan Kumar Sharma that threatened to find the net.
The best opportunity of the half fell to Real Kashmir from a delivery into the box. Niraj Kumar ventured off his line but could only manage a weak punch, allowing the ball to drift into a perilous area.
Ahteeb Ahmad Dar attempted a bicycle kick that seemed destined for the goal, but Karan Sharma made a crucial clearance off the line, ensuring the teams went into halftime without scoring.
The Snow Leopards emerged from the break with renewed vigor, gaining better control in midfield and posing a greater threat in the attacking third.
Shedrack Charles came closest to scoring, but his shot struck the crossbar and went out.
Namdhari took the lead shortly after the hour mark when Seilenthang Lotjem found the net. Substitute Manbir Singh delivered a precise cross to the far post, allowing Lotjem to time his run perfectly and slot the ball past the goalkeeper.
In pursuit of an equalizer, Real Kashmir intensified their efforts. Shedrack Charles tested the Namdhari goalkeeper with a powerful shot that was deflected to safety, and moments later, Niraj Kumar had to react quickly to deny Kamal Issah's free-kick, which took an awkward bounce.
Namdhari managed to maintain their narrow lead until the final whistle, successfully withstanding the mounting pressure from the home team.
Despite Real Kashmir introducing fresh players and ramping up the intensity in the box, Namdhari's defense held firm, resulting in another disappointing outing for the hosts this season.