They take on Real Kashmir in the I-League at PJN Fatorda today
Fatorda: Dempo SC will look to end their home campaign on a high as they take on Real Kashmir in their final I-League fixture at the PJN Stadium, Fatorda, today.
The Golden Eagles are riding the momentum of a dominant 5-2 victory over Aizawl FC, a side battling relegation. Marcus Joseph stole the spotlight with a sensational hat-trick, while academy products Pruthvesh Pednekar and Vinay Harji added a goal each—Harji marking his maiden I-League strike. Aizawl managed to pull two back, courtesy of a Mohamed Ali own goal and a late strike from Vanlalvlunga.
Reflecting on the season, head coach Samir Naik acknowledged the team’s growth in their return to the I-League. “It’s a mixed reaction. We could have done better, but overall, I think we performed quite well. It was my first season as a coach in the I-League, and for many of my young players, it was their debut season too. We’ve gained valuable experience, and I’m confident we’ll be stronger next year,” Naik stated.
Their opponents, Real Kashmir, come into this fixture after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Delhi FC, with Mohammad Inam and Gnohere Krizo finding the net. Delhi’s lone goal came via a Hridaya Jai penalty.
Naik also acknowledged the unwavering support of Dempo’s fans, despite their reputation for being more reserved. “Dempo fans are silent supporters, but they always have our back. Even at Fatorda, we’ve had large turnouts, and they’ve always believed in us. I know they’re behind us, and hopefully, we’ll see them again in full force next season,” he expressed.
Heading into this crucial clash, Dempo SC sit ninth in the standings with 25 points from 20 games, while Real Kashmir hold third place with 35 points from the same number of matches. Naik assured that his team remains fully focused. “We’ve approached every game with the same mindset, and this one is no different. The boys are charged up and ready,” he concluded.
