Real Kashmir FC wins over Delhi FC, climbs to 2nd spot

Srinagar, Mar 22: Real Kashmir FC bolstered their I-League title hopes with a crucial 2-1 victory over Delhi FC at Mahilpur Football Stadium, Punjab, on Saturday.

According to a press release issued, the win propelled RKFC to second place in the standings with 35 points from 20 matches, just two points behind league leaders Churchill Brothers.

The match began with Real Kashmir asserting dominance early on, capitalising on defensive lapses from Delhi FC. In just the fourth minute, Mohammad Inam opened the scoring following a defensive mix-up by the hosts. Inam picked up the ball on the left flank, made a sharp run down the line, and sent in a low cross into the six-yard box. Under pressure from RKFC’s Gnohere Krizo, Delhi’s defenders failed to clear the ball, and goalkeeper Debnath Mondal fumbled it straight into Inam’s path. The forward reacted quickly, slamming the ball into the net to put Kashmir ahead.

RKFC continued to press, and in the 27th minute, their relentless attack paid off again. A long ball was sent toward Krizo, prompting Mondal to rush out of his box in an attempt to head it away. However, he misjudged the bounce, allowing Krizo to easily tap the ball into an empty net, doubling Kashmir’s lead. The visitors nearly added a third before halftime when Mondal spilled another routine cross, this time into Krizo’s path. The Ivorian striker took a first-time shot at the open goal, but Delhi defender Joseph Lalmuanawma managed to deflect it over the bar, keeping the scoreline at 2-0 going into the break.

The second half saw a much-improved performance from Delhi FC. In the opening 15 minutes of the period, they pushed forward with urgency, testing Real Kashmir’s goalkeeper, Furqan Ahmad Dar, multiple times. Samir Binong was particularly dangerous, forcing Dar into several crucial saves. Delhi’s persistence finally paid off in the 54th minute when Binong, skilfully manoeuvring inside the box, was brought down, earning a penalty. Hridaya Jain stepped up and confidently converted the spot-kick, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

Despite Delhi FC’s desperate attempts to find an equaliser, Real Kashmir’s defence held firm. With this victory, RKFC not only kept their title hopes alive but also sealed Delhi FC’s relegation from the league. With two matches remaining, Real Kashmir remains in contention for the top spot, making their upcoming fixtures decisive in the title race.