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MARGAO: Substitute Nestor Dias proved to be Dempo SC’s saviour, netting an 83rd-minute winner to secure a 1-0 victory over Delhi FC in their I-League 2024-25 clash, at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday.
The result ended Dempo’s five-match winless run and lifted the five-time champions to seventh place with 14 points from 11 matches (4W, 2D, 5L). Delhi FC, on the other hand, continued their struggles, slipping to 11th place with just nine points.
With both sides desperate to break their poor form, Dempo, under the tactical guidance of club legend Samir Naik, adopted a more attacking approach, moving the ball swiftly and stretching play. In contrast, Delhi FC opted for a compact defensive setup, aiming to capitalise on opposition errors.
Dempo created the better opportunities in the first half but were let down by a lack of clinical finishing. Early on, Pruthvesh Pednekar delivered a dangerous cross from the right to Knerkitalang Buam, who managed to outpace his marker but failed to generate enough power behind his shot, allowing Delhi goalkeeper Lalmuansanga to collect comfortably.
Buam had another golden opportunity in the second half, only to see his weak effort easily saved. Vieri Colaco reacted quickly to the rebound, but Lalmuansanga was once again equal to the task. Delhi FC, usually sharp in attack, looked uncharacteristically off-colour and struggled to break down a resolute Dempo defence.
The deadlock was finally broken in the dying moments when Kapil Hoble made a determined run down the right flank and delivered a precise cross to the far post. Nestor Dias, perfectly positioned, took an exquisite first touch before calmly slotting home his first goal of the season, sending the Dempo supporters into celebration.
With a crucial three points secured, Dempo will now aim to build on this momentum as they continue their I-League campaign.
