Srinagar, March 25: In a thrilling match on Wednesday, Namdhari Sports Club achieved their first victory of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 season by defeating Real Kashmir FC 1-0 at the TRC Stadium in Srinagar. The only goal of the match was scored by Silenthang Lotjem.
With this win, Namdhari SC climbed to sixth place in the standings with six points from five matches, while Real Kashmir FC remains in ninth place with just two points from the same number of games. Namdhari’s goalkeeper, Neeraj Kumar, was named ‘Man of the Match.’
Both teams struggled to dominate midfield at the start, leading to frequent changes in ball possession during the first half hour. Set-pieces proved to be the best opportunity for both sides to score. Real Kashmir relied on long throw-ins, while Namdhari attempted to capitalize on free-kicks and corner-kicks.
The only moment of concern for both goalkeepers came from a few scattered attacks. Najib Ibrahim tested Real Kashmir’s goalkeeper Furkan Ahmed Dar with a low shot from the edge of the box. On the other end, Karan Kumar Sharma’s attempt to clear the ball inadvertently directed it towards the goal, forcing Neeraj Kumar into a remarkable save.
The best chance to score in the first half fell to the home team when another ball was thrown into the box. Neeraj Kumar came off his line but could only weakly punch the ball away, allowing it to bounce back into a dangerous area. Ahtib Ahmed Dar attempted a bicycle kick that seemed destined for the net, but Karan Sharma made a crucial clearance off the goal line, leaving both teams scoreless at halftime.
The Snow Leopards started the second half with renewed energy, displaying better control in midfield and looking more threatening in the opponent’s half. Shedrack Charles came closest to breaking the deadlock, but his effort hit the crossbar and went out.
Just after the hour mark, Namdhari took the lead with a goal from Silenthang Lotjem. Substitute player Manbir Singh delivered a cross to the far post, and Lotjem timed his run perfectly into the six-yard box. He entered unnoticed and calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.
After falling behind, Real Kashmir intensified their efforts to equalize. Shedrack Charles tested the goalkeeper with a powerful shot, which was safely pushed away. Moments later, Neeraj Kumar was called into action again, reacting quickly to Kamal Issa’s free-kick and stopping it as the ball awkwardly bounced in a dangerous area. The visiting team maintained their slender lead until the final whistle, enduring continuous pressure from the home side.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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