Dempo SC's Winless Streak Continues with Dramatic 2-2 Draw Against Chanmari
Panaji: Dempo SC traveled to Aizawl with renewed hope of securing their maiden victory in the current Indian Football League (IFL) season, but the five-time national champions were forced to settle for a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Chanmari at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium on Thursday. The result leaves Dempo still searching for that elusive first win, while Chanmari capitalized on the point to climb to the summit of the league table.
Early Dominance by the Hosts Sets the Tone
Coming off a disappointing loss to Diamond Harbour and an opening draw, Dempo entered the match with optimism. However, it was Chanmari who seized control early on. The breakthrough came in the 15th minute when midfielder Christopher Kamei's expertly curled free-kick struck the post. Striker Suangaihmuna displayed sharp instincts, reacting quickest to head the rebound into the net, giving the hosts a deserved lead.
Chanmari continued to press and doubled their advantage just before halftime through a fluid team move. Suangaihmuna released Kamei down the left flank, and the midfielder delivered a precise low cross into the box. Malsawmsanga arrived at the perfect moment to tap the ball home from close range, putting Chanmari firmly in command at 2-0.
Dempo's Resilient Fightback Before the Break
Despite facing a two-goal deficit, Dempo showcased their resilience by pulling one back in the final minute of the first half. The Chanmari defense failed to clear a dangerous cross, allowing the ball to fall to Dempo midfielder Sebastián Gutiérrez. The Colombian combined skillfully with Marcus Joseph, who laid the ball back for Gutiérrez to fire a low shot past the outstretched legs of the goalkeeper, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
Second Half Drama and a Crucial Red Card
The second half began with Dempo goalkeeper Ashish Sibi making two crucial saves in the opening five minutes, denying efforts from Malsawmsanga and Jota to keep his team in contention. The momentum of the match shifted dramatically in the 69th minute when Chanmari's Malsawmsanga Renthlei was shown a straight red card for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, reducing the hosts to ten men.
Capitalizing on their numerical advantage, Dempo pushed forward aggressively in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off nine minutes before the end of regulation time when Marcus Joseph won possession high up the pitch and unleashed a powerful shot towards the near post, beating the goalkeeper to level the score at 2-2.
Late Push Falls Short as Chanmari Holds Firm
In the closing stages, Dempo threw men forward in a desperate attempt to secure a winner. Despite having extra time and a player advantage, the visitors were unable to break down Chanmari's resolute defense. The hosts held firm, organizing themselves effectively to deny any clear-cut chances and secure a valuable point.
The draw propelled Chanmari to the top of the IFL standings with five points, while Dempo climbed to eighth place with two points. This match highlighted Dempo's fighting spirit but also underscored their ongoing struggles to convert opportunities into victories, leaving fans and analysts alike pondering what it will take for the former champions to return to winning ways.
