Fatorda/Shillong, Feb 28 (NationPress) The Indian Football League (IFL), which serves as the country's second-tier men's professional football competition, is set to host its inaugural double-header this Sunday. The action continues as Dempo SC takes on Real Kashmir FC at Fatorda, while Shillong Lajong prepares for a home match against Rajasthan United at the SSA Stadium in Shillong.

The renowned Goan club, boasting the most successful track record in the league's history, ruled the top tier between 2005 and 2012 with an impressive five national championships. They aim to regain their supremacy on familiar turf as they welcome Real Kashmir FC to the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa.

Head coach Samir Naik highlighted their goals by asserting, “Whenever Dempo participates in any competition, we approach it with utmost seriousness. Our ambition is to become champions.”

After finishing sixth last season, Dempo is aiming for a top-five finish to contend for promotion.

Fueled by a successful Super Cup campaign, where their all-Indian squad held ISL powerhouses East Bengal and Mohun Bagan to draws, and the addition of significant foreign players like striker Marcus Joseph and defender Aubin Kouakou, Dempo appears ready to establish a strong early momentum in the IFL.

Their rivals, Real Kashmir FC, arrive with their characteristic resilience and physical play style. The Snow Leopards from Srinagar, under the guidance of head coach Ishfaq Ahmed, are recognized for their steadfast defense and effective counter-attacks. Aware of the challenge ahead, Ahmed remarked, “Dempo has always been a formidable opponent, especially in Fatorda. They have their own philosophy; they dominate the pitch and play excellent football.”

“The initial 20 minutes of a season opener are crucial for managing nerves and delivering our best performance,” he added.

Adjusting to Goa's coastal heat will test the endurance of the visiting team. RKFC's Mohammad Inaam commended Dempo’s recent form, stating, “They showcased impressive football against Mohun Bagan and East Bengal. I believe this season will be as tough as the previous one because every team is strong; however, we have confidence in our abilities,” he encouraged fans to watch the broadcast and support their team.

With both teams eager to set a strong tone in a highly competitive season, Sunday’s match promises to be a significant early indicator of their intentions. Hosts Dempo SC will be determined to make a substantial first impression upon their return to the national stage in front of their home supporters, while Real Kashmir FC will strive to leverage their well-known toughness and experience in what is anticipated to be a closely contested matchup.

Meanwhile, Lajong FC looks to leverage home support.

In the evening matchup, Shillong Lajong FC will take the field, bolstered by their enthusiastic home crowd. The Meghalaya-based club remains dedicated to nurturing local talent rather than relying on hefty expenditures. Head coach Viru Thapa stated, “Our fans are our 12th man. Their motivation pushes us to excel. The support from Shillong is our pride, as evident in our Durand Cup results.”

Opposing them are Rajasthan United FC, who enter Shillong with a revamped squad and a point to prove. The Jaipur-based team, led by interim head coach Vikas Rawat, has strengthened their lineup with key foreign signings during the break. Their strategy aims to control the pace of the game and prioritize possession to quiet the raucous home crowd and secure crucial points away from home. Rajasthan’s head coach emphasized, “Football is always a challenge. It doesn’t matter if you’re at home or away. We are focused on achieving promotion to ISL; that is our sole objective this season.”

Their captain, Bhabindra Malla Thakuri, echoed the coach’s confidence ahead of their away match, stating, “We are motivated to secure three points in this away game. We have trained together multiple times; now is our moment to deliver.”

With high stakes right from the season's opening weekend, both teams are eager to make an early statement. Hosts Shillong Lajong will strive to capitalize on their home advantage and enthusiastic support, while Rajasthan United will seek to navigate what promises to be a fiercely competitive and intense match.