Historic Victory: Diamond Harbour FC Secures First Win in IFL 2025-26
Synopsis
In a thrilling match at Kalyani Stadium, Diamond Harbour FC achieved their first-ever win in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26, overcoming Dempo SC 2-1. Key players like Antonio Moyano and Hugo Díaz made pivotal contributions, marking a significant milestone for the team.
Key Takeaways
Diamond Harbour FC achieved their first-ever IFL victory.
Antonio Moyano opened the scoring with a goal in first-half stoppage time.
Marcus Joseph equalised for Dempo SC early in the second half.
Hugo Díaz scored the decisive goal for Diamond Harbour in the 70th minute.
Dempo SC's attempts to equalise in the final minutes were thwarted.
Kalyani, March 8 (NationPress) In a historic moment for Diamond Harbour FC, they clinched their inaugural Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 triumph by defeating Dempo SC 2-1 at Kalyani Stadium on Sunday. The home team surged ahead with a goal from Antonio Moyano during the stoppage time of the first half. Following the break, Marcus Joseph equalised for Dempo, but it was Hugo Díaz who netted the winning goal in the 70th minute, securing Diamond Harbour’s maiden victory.
Head coach Kibu Vicuña made two key changes to his starting eleven from the last match, introducing Hugo Díaz and Halicharan Narzary in place of Bryce Brian Miranda and Pintu Mahata.
On the other hand, Dempo SC’s manager Samir Subash Naik implemented three changes, giving starts to Jose Luis Moreno Pena, Amay Morajkar, and Knerkitalang Buam as replacements for Vieri Colaco, Richmond Kwasi Owusu, and Seigoumang Doungel.
Although Dempo had a few chances in the opening ten minutes, Diamond Harbour quickly regained dominance, controlling the game's tempo and possession in the first half without finding the back of the net.
The breakthrough came unexpectedly at the end of the first half (45+4') during a swift counter-attack. Spanish midfielder Antonio Moyano executed a stunning finish, lifting the ball over the goalkeeper to grant Diamond Harbour a deserved 1-0 lead at halftime.
The second half unfolded with both teams eager to score. Dempo fought back and equalised in the 55th minute when Marcus Leric Jr Joseph showcased his skills by evading two defenders before finishing calmly to level the match at 1-1.
In search of a winning goal, Coach Vicuña made an effective substitution just two minutes after the change. In the 70th minute, substitute Bryce Brian Miranda sent in a precise cross, allowing Hugo Diaz Rodriguez to strike decisively and restore Diamond Harbour’s lead.
Dempo nearly found another equaliser in the 76th minute, but the crossbar thwarted Joseph's attempt for a second goal. With seven minutes of additional time, the Goan side intensified their efforts, but the resilient Diamond Harbour defence held firm to secure a landmark 2-1 victory.
Point of View
Showcasing their potential and resilience in a highly competitive league. The team's strategic substitutions and timely goals reflect a promising future, and their fans can look forward to more exciting performances ahead.
NationPress
5 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Diamond Harbour FC achieve their first IFL victory?
Diamond Harbour FC secured their first IFL victory on March 8, 2025, against Dempo SC.
Who scored the winning goal for Diamond Harbour FC?
Hugo Díaz scored the winning goal for Diamond Harbour FC in the 70th minute.
What was the final score of the match?
The final score was Diamond Harbour FC 2, Dempo SC 1.
Where was the match played?
The match took place at Kalyani Stadium.
Who was the head coach of Diamond Harbour FC?
The head coach of Diamond Harbour FC is Kibu Vicuña.
