Khangembam cancels Marcus’ early goal to deny the hosts three points
Fatorda: Dempo SC were held to a 1-1 draw by Namdhari SC in a closely contested IFL 2025-26 fixture played at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium at Fatorda.
Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, the Golden Eagles were denied by a resilient defence and a standout performance from Namdhari goalkeeper Niraj Kumar. The Golden Eagles started brightly, making three changes with Marcus Joseph, Darell Mascarenhas, and Nestor Dias coming in. Their intent was clear from the outset. Dempo earned an early penalty in the eighth minute after a deliberate push in the box on Joseph. He stepped up and sent goalkeeper Niraj Kumar the wrong way to give Dempo a deserved lead.
Dempo came close to doubling the lead on several occasions. Richmond Owusu’s curling effort drifted just wide, and Joseph missed a golden chance from close range, with Kumar producing a brilliant save. Saiesh Bagkar’s long-range strike and a clever combination involving Pruthvesh and Mohamed Ali created further openings, but finishing proved elusive. Owusu struck the post late in the second half, underlining Dempo’s attacking dominance.
Namdhari capitalised on a rare lapse from goalkeeper Ashish Sibi in the 31st minute, with Khangembam Singh pouncing to level the scores. Despite this, Dempo controlled the game, with structured build-up play and relentless pressure. While Dempo dominated in attack and possession, their profligacy in front of goal and Niraj Kumar’s heroics ensured a point apiece, leaving both teams to reflect on missed opportunities in the contest.
