The Star Cement Indian Football League (IFL) 2025–26 continues with an exciting double-header on Friday, March 13, as Rajasthan United FC take on Namdhari Sports Academy in Jaipur, while Aizawl FC host Real Kashmir FC in Aizawl in two crucial fixtures early in the season.
Both matches come at an important stage of the campaign, with teams looking to build momentum and secure valuable points in the opening weeks of the league. Rajasthan United will welcome Namdhari SA at the Vidhyadhar Nagar Stadium in Jaipur, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00 IST. Later in the evening, Aizawl FC will face Real Kashmir FC at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, with the match beginning at 18:30 IST.
The matches will be broadcast live on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, while streaming will be available on Sony LIV, the Waves app, and the Prasar Bharati YouTube channel.
Rajasthan United Aim to Bounce Back at Home
Rajasthan United FC will be eager to return to winning ways when they step onto the pitch in front of their home supporters.
The Jaipur-based club is coming off a 1–3 away defeat to Aizawl FC, a result that highlighted defensive vulnerabilities the team will be keen to address. Assistant coach Vikas Rawat emphasised the importance of securing a positive result.
“We are working very hard to get the three points and get back to winning ways. The players are motivated. Namdhari are a very good team who try to dominate the field. We are in a situation where we cannot afford to lose any more points,” Rawat said.
Rajasthan United will rely heavily on their midfield control and attacking width to break down the opposition. Astray, who has been central to the team’s midfield creativity, will play a key role in orchestrating attacks.
On the flanks, experienced players such as Abhishek Ambekar are expected to stretch the opposition defence and create opportunities in the final third. Meanwhile, captain and goalkeeper Bhabindra Malla Thakuri will be tasked with organising the defensive line and ensuring the team maintains discipline at the back after conceding three goals in the previous match.
Namdhari Seek First Win of the Season
Namdhari Sports Academy arrive in Jaipur still searching for their first win of the campaign. The Punjab-based side has drawn both of their opening fixtures, including a hard-fought 1–1 draw against Gokulam Kerala in Manjeri. Despite the lack of victories so far, Namdhari have shown resilience and defensive organisation, which they will hope to build upon against Rajasthan United.
Forward Seilenthang Lotjem expressed confidence in the team’s preparation.
“We are improving match-by-match. We are preparing really well and we will definitely do better in this match. It will be difficult, but we will try our best to get three points,” he said.
Namdhari are expected to rely on their strong physical presence and counter-attacking strategy, with their Ghanaian players providing stability and strength in key positions. Historically, Rajasthan United have had the upper hand in this fixture. In their previous four meetings, Rajasthan have recorded two wins, while Namdhari have won once, with one match ending in a draw.
Their most recent encounter at the same venue saw Rajasthan United secure a 2–1 victory.
Aizawl Look to Build Momentum
The evening fixture in Aizawl will see Aizawl FC host Real Kashmir FC in what promises to be an intense contest. Aizawl head into the match with renewed confidence following their 3–1 victory over Rajasthan United, which marked their first win of the season. Head coach R. Lalruatfela has implemented a distinct tactical identity for the team, placing trust in an all-Mizo starting lineup built around quick transitions and wing-based attacking play.
Despite the positive result, Lalruatfela insists his team remains focused on immediate objectives.
“To be honest, I don’t care about top six or bottom six. Whenever we play for Aizawl, we will look for three points,” he said. “We are performing higher than the expectations. We will be performing much better in the coming matches.”
Real Kashmir Seek Response
Real Kashmir FC, known as the Snow Leopards, will be determined to bounce back after suffering a 1–2 defeat to Shillong Lajong in their previous match. Head coach Ishfaq Ahmed acknowledged the challenges the team has faced after returning to competitive action following a long break.
“After such a long break from football, it has been challenging for everyone involved, but we are improving day-by-day and working hard to become a stronger team with every match,” Ahmed said.
Playing in Aizawl presents a unique challenge due to the demanding conditions and the passionate home support, but Ahmed has urged his players to remain focused.
“In a short league every game is crucial. My message to the players is simple – give your 100 per cent, stick to the plans, and the results will follow,” he added.
Real Kashmir Hold Historical Advantage
Historically, Real Kashmir have dominated this fixture. In their 13 previous meetings, the Srinagar-based club has secured seven victories, compared to just one win for Aizawl, while five matches have ended in draws. In their most recent encounter in Srinagar, Real Kashmir emerged victorious with a 2–1 win.
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With the league season still in its early stages, both matches carry significant importance. Rajasthan United will aim to regain momentum and secure a crucial home victory, while Namdhari will look to convert their promising performances into their first win of the season.
Meanwhile, Aizawl FC will be determined to continue their strong run at home and consolidate their position near the top of the table, while Real Kashmir seek their first win and a return to form. With four competitive teams in action and valuable points on offer, the Star Cement IFL double-header promises an exciting day of football for fans across the country.
