Kalyani, March 8: Diamond Harbour FC secured their first-ever Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 victory after edging past Dempo SC 2-1 at the Kalyani Stadium here on Sunday.
Antonio Moyano gave the home side the lead in added time of the first half.
A second half strike by Marcus Joseph equalised the score and Hugo Diaz’s strike in the 70th minute gave Diamond Harbour their first win. Dempo created a couple of half-chances in the opening 10 minutes, but Diamond Harbour soon regained control.
The hosts dictated the tempo and heavily dominated possession throughout the first half, doing everything right except finding the back of the net.
The breakthrough finally arrived deep into first-half stoppage time (45+4’) against the run of play.Catching Dempo off guard on a rapid counter-attack, Spanish midfielder Antonio Moyano produced a brilliant finish, executing a fantastic scoop over the goalkeeper to give Diamond Harbour a well-deserved 1-0 lead going into the break.The second half proved to be a topsy-turvy affair as both teams hunted for goals. Dempo responded strongly and found their equaliser in the 55th minute.-SThe Trinidadian forward Marcus Leric Jr Joseph showcased his individual brilliance, expertly going past two defenders before slotting home a calm finish to make it 1-1. (PTI)
