Rajasthan United FC kicked off the new year with a commanding performance, securing a 3-1 victory over Sporting Club Delhi FC in a morning fixture of the Reliance Foundation Development League. The match was played under dense fog and mist at the Sudeva FC Ground in Delhi, with an early 9 am kick-off on Tuesday.
Early Goal Sets the Tone in Challenging Conditions
Despite the limited visibility and difficult weather, the Jaipur-based team started aggressively. Their early pressure paid off when forward Rajkumar Lachenba broke the deadlock, finding the net in the 17th minute. Rajasthan United maintained control for the remainder of the first half, showcasing superior adaptation to the fog-laden pitch.
Second-Half Dominance Seals the Win
After the break, Rajasthan United continued their attacking momentum. The lead was doubled in the 65th minute by Naoba Meitei, who capitalized on sustained offensive pressure. Although Sporting Club Delhi managed to score a consolation goal to make it 2-1, Rajasthan United sealed the deal late in the game. Rajkumar Lachenba scored his second goal of the match in the 87th minute, completing his brace and ensuring a deserved 3-1 win for his side.
Coaches and Management Hail Team's Resilience
The victory was hailed by the team's leadership as a testament to the squad's mental fortitude. Head coach Dharminder Singh praised his players' focus, stating, "Playing early morning in fog is never easy, but the boys showed great focus and discipline. Their intensity from the first minute made the difference. It's a brilliant way to start off the new year, 2026."
KK Tak, the chairman of Rajasthan United FC, emphasized the broader significance of the win. "This win in difficult conditions is a proud moment for the club," he said. "It reflects our commitment to developing young players who are not only technically sound but also mentally strong. We will continue to support our academy and development programmes to take Rajasthan football forward."
The result underscores Rajasthan United FC's strong start in the Reliance Foundation Development League. The team will now shift its focus to its next fixture, where they aim to maintain this positive momentum against Inter Kashi.