Newly promoted Chanmari FC will look to continue their impressive start to the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025–26 season when they host former champions Dempo SC at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl on Thursday, March 12.
The match, scheduled to kick off at 18:30 IST, carries significant importance for both teams as they aim to strengthen their positions early in the campaign. The fixture will be telecast live on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, while fans can also watch the game via Sony LIV, the Waves app, and the Prasar Bharati YouTube channel.
Chanmari Riding Momentum After First Victory
Chanmari FC head into the contest with confidence after securing their first win of the season, a dramatic 2–1 victory over Sreenidi Deccan FC last week. That result lifted the Aizawl-based club to third place in the table with four points from two matches, marking an encouraging start for the newly promoted side. The win also highlighted the tactical awareness of head coach Victor Lalbiakmawia, whose decision to introduce Brazilian forward Joao Vitor De Paula Morais, popularly known as Jota, into the starting lineup proved decisive.
Jota opened the scoring shortly after the hour mark with a well-taken finish that broke the deadlock and gave Chanmari control of the match. He later played a key role in the winning goal as well, providing a precise assist for substitute Lalruatsanga, who struck dramatically in the 93rd minute to seal all three points.
The performance showcased Chanmari’s growing confidence and attacking ability, especially in the final third where the team displayed improved composure.
Home Advantage in Aizawl
Chanmari will also take comfort from playing in familiar surroundings at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, where strong local support often creates an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. Goalkeeper Zothanmawia has emerged as a key figure for the hosts, delivering reliable performances between the posts and providing stability to the defensive unit.
With the team showing signs of attacking sharpness and defensive discipline, Chanmari will aim to make the most of their home conditions and secure back-to-back victories in front of their supporters.
Standing in Chanmari’s path, however, is one of Indian football’s most historic clubs. Dempo SC, multiple-time national champions, returned to the national stage this season with the aim of rebuilding their legacy. But the start to their campaign has been challenging.
The Goan side currently has just one point from their opening two matches. They began the season with a 2–2 draw against Real Kashmir, before suffering a narrow 2–1 defeat away to Diamond Harbour FC on March 8. Despite those setbacks, Dempo still possess several experienced players capable of turning matches around.
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One of the biggest threats in Dempo’s attack remains Trinidadian forward Marcus Joseph, a player known for his pace, strength, and ability to create goals out of difficult situations. Joseph demonstrated his quality in the recent match against Diamond Harbour when he dribbled past two defenders before calmly finishing to equalise for his side.
He almost added another goal later in the match, only to see his powerful effort crash against the crossbar. With Dempo seeking their first victory of the season, Joseph’s ability to produce moments of individual brilliance could once again prove crucial. Dempo head coach Samir Naik has acknowledged that the team’s main issue so far has been their inability to convert chances into goals.
“We worked in a lot of areas. We are creating a lot of chances but we are lacking in scoring and finishing opportunities,” Naik said ahead of the match.
Naik also pointed out that the demanding schedule and challenging away fixtures add to the difficulty of the league. “There are no easy games in IFL. This is a very tricky league. The players are doing their best,” he added.
The coach will be hoping his players can improve their efficiency in front of goal as they attempt to climb the standings.
High Stakes Early in the Season
Although the season is still in its early stages, the match holds importance for both teams. For Chanmari FC, another victory would strengthen their position among the league’s early contenders and reinforce confidence within the squad. For Dempo SC, securing points on the road could help stabilize their campaign and provide the momentum needed to challenge for higher positions.
With Chanmari eager to capitalise on their home advantage and Dempo determined to bounce back from recent setbacks, the match promises to be a fiercely competitive contest. Chanmari’s youthful energy and attacking momentum will be tested against Dempo’s experience and attacking quality.
As the teams prepare to take the field in Aizawl, both sides know that the result could shape the direction of their campaigns in the Indian Football League 2025–26 season.
