I-League 2024-25: Paulo Cezar's Double Secures Victory for Real Kashmir Over SC Bengaluru

Synopsis

On January 19, Paulo Cezar's two goals propelled Real Kashmir FC to a 3-1 win against a 9-man SC Bengaluru in the I-League 2024-25. This victory at the TRC Football Turf marked a return to form for Real Kashmir, moving them up the standings amidst SC Bengaluru's ongoing struggles.

Key Takeaways

Real Kashmir FC secured a 3-1 victory against SC Bengaluru.
Paulo Cezar scored two goals, leading the team to victory.
SC Bengaluru played with nine men after two red cards.
This win marked Real Kashmir's third home victory of the season.
The match showcased Real Kashmir's determination to end a winless streak.

Srinagar, Jan 19 (NationPress) Paulo Cezar netted a brace to steer Real Kashmir FC back to victory in the I-League 2024-25, as they dominated a 9-man SC Bengaluru with a score of 3-1 at the TRC Football Turf on Sunday.

After Brazilian Cezar (28’, 55’) put the home team 2-0 in front, Senegalese Abdou Karim added another goal from the penalty spot after SC Bengaluru goalkeeper Bishal Lama fouled him in the box, resulting in a red card. All three victories for Real Kashmir have occurred on their home turf.

Ugandan Henry Kisseka scored a late consolation goal for SC Bengaluru. The captain, Carlos Lomba, was also sent off in the dying minutes.

This victory allowed Real Kashmir to ascend to the sixth position in the standings with 13 points from nine matches, including three wins, four draws, and two losses.

For SC Bengaluru, a team new to the I-League, it was another disappointing game. They sit at the bottom of the table with just five points from nine games, having not won in their last five matches. Eager to end a six-game winless stretch dating back to December 4, 2024, Real Kashmir showcased strong intent from the beginning.

The deadlock was broken in the 28th minute with a header from Cezar off a cross by Lalramsanga. Cezar almost doubled the lead shortly after, but his rebound goal was ruled offside.

The second half saw Real Kashmir solidify their dominance. In the 55th minute, Karim cleverly maneuvered past the Bengaluru defenders before laying off to an open Cezar, who rounded Lama to score his second.

The game's pivotal moment occurred in the 70th minute when Karim was brought down by Lama, who received a direct red card, leaving SC Bengaluru with ten men. Karim converted the ensuing penalty.