Dempo SC finally opened their account in the Star Cement Indian Football League (IFL) 2025–26 season with a commanding 3-0 win over Shillong Lajong FC at the PJN Stadium in Goa on Tuesday.
In a performance defined by efficiency and defensive discipline, goals from Marcus Joseph, Kapil Hoble, and Richmond Kwasi Owusu sealed a much-needed victory for the Goan side.
The result lifts Dempo to six points for the season, providing a significant boost after a slow start, while Shillong Lajong, despite remaining fourth with 11 points, will be left reflecting on missed opportunities and a lack of cutting edge in the final third.
Early intent sets the tone
Dempo made their intentions clear from the opening whistle, pressing high and looking to disrupt Shillong’s rhythm. Their proactive approach paid dividends early, as they took the lead in just the sixth minute.
A defensive clearance from Shillong’s Rudra Ved fell invitingly to Marcus Joseph at the edge of the box. The forward showed excellent composure to bring the ball under control before unleashing a powerful left-footed strike into the net, giving Dempo an early advantage.
The goal allowed the hosts to settle into their structure, forcing Shillong to chase the game while maintaining defensive compactness.
Shillong dominate possession but lack penetration
As expected, Shillong Lajong controlled large spells of possession, attempting to build through midfield and create openings. However, their dominance on the ball rarely translated into clear chances.
Dempo’s defensive setup was disciplined and well-organised, with players maintaining shape and closing down spaces effectively. Shillong found it difficult to break through, often resorting to crosses and long-range efforts that failed to trouble the defence consistently.
Despite their control, Shillong were punished again in the 24th minute. A cross from left back Saiesh Bagkar created confusion in the box, and goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai hesitated in dealing with the delivery. The ball deflected off Kapil Hoble and into the net, doubling Dempo’s lead.
The second goal further exposed Shillong’s vulnerability—possession without precision.
Defensive resilience and key saves
Shillong did attempt to respond before the break, with Phrangki Buam coming closest to pulling one back. His header, however, was brilliantly tipped over the bar by Dempo goalkeeper Ashish Sibi, ensuring the hosts carried a comfortable two-goal lead into half-time.
This moment highlighted one of the defining aspects of Dempo’s performance—their ability to combine defensive organisation with timely interventions when required.
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Dempo continued their momentum into the second half, maintaining their intensity and exploiting spaces as Shillong pushed forward.
Their third goal came in the 55th minute, effectively putting the contest beyond doubt. A quick attacking move saw Bagkar brought down inside the box by Rymbai, earning Dempo a penalty. Richmond Kwasi Owusu stepped up and converted calmly, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it 3-0. The goal reflected Dempo’s clinical approach making the most of key moments while maintaining composure under pressure.
Shillong’s struggles in the final third
Trailing by three goals, Shillong Lajong increased their attacking intent, introducing substitutes and pushing more players forward. They created a few half-chances, particularly through set-pieces, but continued to lack the finishing quality required to break down Dempo’s defence.
Their inability to convert possession into meaningful opportunities remained a consistent issue throughout the match. While their build-up play was structured, the final pass and finishing let them down. For head coach Birendra Thapa, this match will underline the need for greater attacking efficiency, especially against well-organised defensive units.
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Dempo’s victory was built on a well-rounded performance early attacking intent, defensive discipline, and clinical finishing.
Head coach Samir Naik’s tactical approach was evident in how the team managed different phases of the game. After taking the lead, Dempo did not overcommit forward but instead focused on maintaining shape and exploiting transitions.
Substitutes Cristian Damian Perez and Sebastián Gutiérrez nearly added a fourth goal in the closing stages, further highlighting Dempo’s attacking depth.
This win could prove to be a turning point in Dempo’s campaign. After a challenging start to the season, securing three points in such convincing fashion provides both confidence and momentum. For Shillong Lajong, the defeat serves as a reminder that possession alone is not enough. Their position in the top half of the table remains intact, but performances like this will need to be addressed if they are to sustain their challenge.
In the end, the match was a clear example of contrasting approaches Shillong’s control versus Dempo’s efficiency.
Dempo did not need to dominate possession to dominate the scoreboard. Their ability to capitalise on key moments, combined with defensive solidity, made the difference.
For a team searching for its first win of the season, this was more than just three points it was a statement of intent.
And if they can build on this performance, Dempo SC may well be turning a corner in their campaign.
