Dempo SC and Real Kashmir FC faced off in a gripping 2-2 draw in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 on March 1 at PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa. The match showcased an electrifying end to the first half as Mohammad Inam opened the scoring for Real Kashmir, only to see his lead equalized by a penalty converted by Marcus Joseph in added time. The second half featured a rapid exchange of goals from Aubin Kouakou and Shedrack Charles, keeping the contest intense throughout, with both teams leaving the field with a point each.

First Half Developments

The match began with Dempo SC establishing control, maintaining a significant share of possession, but struggled to convert this into clear scoring chances. Early in the match, Dempo captain Ariston Costa suffered a serious head injury following a collision and was taken off the field via ambulance, resulting in Knerkitalang Buam coming on as his replacement. Despite the setback, Dempo continued to push forward, with Richmond Kwasi Owusu attempting a threatening shot that was ultimately saved by the opponent’s goalkeeper.

As the match approached first-half stoppage time, Real Kashmir’s Mohammad Inam made a decisive statement by executing a superb curling shot that found the back of the net in the second minute of added time, putting the visitors ahead 1-0. However, Dempo was granted a penalty opportunity just moments later when Real Kashmir goalkeeper Sayad Bin Abdul Kadir fouled a Dempo player inside the box. Marcus Joseph stepped up to take the penalty in first-half injury time and successfully converted, leveling the score at 1-1 before halftime.

Second Half Action

The second half began with renewed intensity, and Dempo regained the lead in the 61st minute. A well-placed corner kick delivered by Sebastian Gutierrez found Aubin Kouakou, who headed the ball expertly into the net, giving Dempo a brief 2-1 advantage. However, Real Kashmir reacted quickly; only a minute later, a swift counter-attack combined with a lack of defensive organization by Dempo created an opening for Shedrack Charles, who finished with precision to equalize the match at 2-2.

In an attempt to secure a winning goal, both teams made strategic substitutions. Dempo brought in Laximanrao Rane and Amay Morajkar for Seigoumang Doungel and Pruthvesh Pednekar, while Real Kashmir introduced Basit Ahmed Bhat and Djibril Fandje Toure, replacing Hyder Yousuf and goal scorer Charles. With five minutes of added time on the clock, Dempo intensified their offensive play, frequently threatening Real Kashmir’s penalty area.

Marcus Joseph made a critical run, evading the offside trap and breaking into the box. As he approached, Real Kashmir goalkeeper Ashish Sibi advanced to confront him, prompting Joseph to round him. With the goal within reach, Joseph’s curling shot drifted agonizingly wide, sealing the match in a 2-2 stalemate.

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