Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: Dempo Sports Club will be aiming to return to winning ways when they take on Aizawl FC in a pivotal I-League 2024-25 encounter on March 24, at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, at 4.30 pm.
The Golden Eagles are looking to recover from a 1-3 home defeat to Churchill Brothers, where an unfortunate own goal from Mohamed Ali, along with strikes from Wayde Lekay and Stendly Fernandes, sealed their fate.
Despite a late fightback that saw Shaher Shaheen pull one back, Dempo SC could not overturn the deficit.
Head Coach Samir Naik acknowledged the disappointment but remains optimistic.
“The loss to Churchill Brothers was tough to take because we felt we could get something out of the game. But we have regrouped, worked on our mistakes, and are ready for the challenges ahead,” he stated.
Aizawl FC, on the other hand, head into the contest with renewed confidence after a 2-0 win over Delhi FC, courtesy of a Lalbiakidika brace. The side from Mizoram, however has struggled for consistency this season and currently sit 11th in the table with 19 points from 19 games.
With relegation looming, they will be desperate to build on their recent victory and climb out of the danger zone.
Dempo SC, positioned ninth with 22 points, are also aware of the importance of this fixture, as the battle for survival intensifies.
Naik emphasised the significance of the match, saying, “It’s a crucial game for both teams. We know what’s at stake, and we must give everything on the pitch.”
With both sides fighting to avoid the drop, expect a tense, hard-fought battle at Fatorda.
Playing at home, Dempo SC will look to capitalise on their attacking strengths, while Aizawl FC will aim to frustrate their opponents and strike on the counter. A high-stakes showdown awaits as both teams battle for three vital points.