Stoppage-time drama unfolded at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium as Chanmari FC defeated Shrinidi Deccan FC 2-1, notching their first points in IFL 2025-26 and climbing to second with four points. Shrinidi Deccan, now third on three points, were left ruing missed opportunities.
Pre-match adjustments set the tone: Chanmari coach Victor Lalbiakmawia unleashed Brazilian Jota in attack, benching Aaron Vanlalerinchana. Shrinidi’s Carlos Manuel Vaz Pinto installed Aryan Neeraj Lamba as goalkeeper, covering for the injured Bhaskar Roy.
The game started sluggishly, focused on midfield control. Shrinidi Deccan dictated terms later in the half, but Hardik Bhatt and Fabrice Kah’s profligacy meant no goals before the break.
Hosts Chanmari seized the initiative post-interval. Suangkhammuna’s visionary pass allowed Jota to slot home past a flummoxed Aryan Lamba, opening a 1-0 lead.
Shrinidi leveled in the 80th through impact sub Paulo Cesar’s header, assisted impeccably by Hardik Bhatt, as tension mounted.
With added time on the clock, Jota’s precise through-ball met Lalruatsanga, whose 93rd-minute rocket sealed a thrilling victory. This gritty performance underscores Chanmari’s growing threat in the IFL.