Sreenidi Deccan FC delivered a composed and clinical performance to defeat Dempo SC 3-1 at the Deccan Arena, climbing to the top of the Star Cement Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 standings.
With 10 points from five matches, Carlos Vaz Pinto’s side now lead the table, while Dempo remain rooted to the bottom with just two points.
The result underlined Sreenidi’s growing authority this season combining attacking efficiency with midfield control and defensive resilience, even when reduced to ten men in the second half.
Fast start sets the tone
Sreenidi Deccan wasted little time asserting control over the contest. Their intent was evident from the opening minutes, and it paid off as early as the fourth minute. A long throw-in from Jagdeep Singh created confusion inside the Dempo penalty area, and R Lalbiakliana reacted quickest to the loose ball, firing a sharp left-footed effort from a tight angle to give the hosts an early lead.
The early goal allowed Sreenidi to dictate the tempo, pressing high and forcing errors from Dempo’s backline. Their attacking movement and width consistently stretched the visitors, creating multiple openings.
David Castañeda came close to doubling the lead midway through the half, only to be denied twice by goalkeeper Ashish Sibi. The Dempo shot-stopper produced a sharp save from close range before pulling off a diving stop moments later to keep out a powerful header. From the resulting corner, Castañeda’s header struck the post, highlighting Sreenidi’s growing dominance.
Idrissou doubles the advantage
The pressure eventually translated into a second goal in the 29th minute. Winger Lalromawia delivered a precise cross from the right flank, and centre-back Hadi Idrissou rose above the defence to power a header into the net.
At 2-0, Sreenidi were firmly in control. Their midfield duo of Ajay Chhetri and Pape Gassama orchestrated play effectively, maintaining possession and limiting Dempo’s ability to build sustained attacks.
Dempo attempted to respond by introducing Marcus Joseph earlier than planned, adding more attacking presence. The forward did provide a spark, testing Kamaljit Singh with a curling effort late in the first half, but the Sreenidi goalkeeper remained alert.
Dempo respond after the break
The visitors emerged with greater urgency in the second half, showing improved intent and sharper movement in the final third. Their persistence paid off in the 60th minute when Knerkitalang Buam delivered a delicate cross towards the far post. Richmond Kwasi Owusu timed his run perfectly, rising above the defence to head the ball past Kamaljit Singh and reduce the deficit to 2-1. The goal injected momentum into Dempo’s play, raising hopes of a potential comeback.
Red card and immediate response
The game took a dramatic turn in the 68th minute when Sreenidi were reduced to ten men. Lalromawia was shown a red card for violent conduct, giving Dempo a numerical advantage at a crucial stage.
However, what followed highlighted Sreenidi’s tactical discipline and mental strength. Instead of retreating under pressure, the hosts responded almost immediately. Ajay Chhetri won possession in midfield and initiated a swift counter-attack, releasing Fabrice Kah Nkwoh into space.
Nkwoh showed composure in front of goal, calmly slotting the ball past the advancing goalkeeper to restore Sreenidi’s two-goal cushion at 3-1. The goal effectively nullified Dempo’s advantage and shifted momentum back in favour of the hosts.
Game management seals the win
With a man down, Sreenidi adopted a more compact defensive structure in the final stages. Dempo enjoyed more possession but struggled to break down a well-organised defensive unit. Amay Morajkar came closest for the visitors with a long-range effort in the 81st minute, but Kamaljit Singh produced a fine save, tipping the ball over the bar. Despite their numerical superiority, Dempo lacked the cutting edge required to trouble Sreenidi consistently.
The hosts managed the closing minutes efficiently, maintaining shape and discipline to see out the game without further setbacks.
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This victory represents more than just three points for Sreenidi Deccan. It reflects a team growing in confidence and maturity, capable of controlling matches and responding to adversity. Their ability to maintain structure after going down to ten men, combined with clinical finishing in key moments, highlights a well-balanced squad with clear tactical identity.
For head coach Carlos Vaz Pinto, the result reinforces the team’s credentials as genuine contenders this season. The blend of experienced players and dynamic attacking options has given Sreenidi an edge in crucial situations.
For Dempo SC, the defeat continues a difficult start to the campaign. While there were positive signs in the second half, particularly after pulling a goal back, their inability to capitalise on numerical advantage will be a concern. Defensive lapses early in the game and a lack of consistency in the final third have cost them valuable points. As the season progresses, addressing these issues will be essential if they are to climb out of the bottom of the table.
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Sreenidi Deccan now sit atop the standings with momentum firmly on their side. Their performances suggest a team capable of sustaining a title challenge, provided they maintain consistency. Dempo, meanwhile, face an uphill task. Turning promising phases into results will be key as they look to revive their campaign.
On the night, however, it was Sreenidi Deccan’s clinical edge, tactical clarity, and resilience under pressure that made the difference, securing a deserved 3-1 victory and top spot in the league.
