RFDL 2024-25: Dempo SC and Classic FA Sustain National Championship Aspirations with Victories

Synopsis

Dempo SC and Classic FA achieved critical victories in the RFDL 2024-25, intensifying competition in Group B as they head towards the final matchday. Dempo SC defeated Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2-0, while Classic FA edged Mumbai City FC 1-0. The thrilling matches keep the hopes alive for both teams to qualify for the national championship.

Key Takeaways

Dempo SC and Classic FA won crucial matches in RFDL 2024-25.
Dempo SC defeated Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2-0.
Classic FA triumphed over Mumbai City FC 1-0.
Group B competition remains tight as the final matchday approaches.
East Bengal FC suffered a 1-0 loss to Kickstart FC.

Mumbai, April 2 (NationPress) Dempo SC and Classic FA secured vital victories to keep Group B competitive until the final matchday of the National Group Stage in the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) 2024-25 at the Reliance Corporate Ground on Wednesday. Prior to their match against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Dempo SC was in urgent need of three points to maintain their chances for the RFDL National Championship, and they gave their all on the field to achieve a crucial win.

In the 20th minute, Swavel Cristiano Furtado took advantage of a slip-up from Mohun Bagan Super Giant's captain Amandeep in the penalty area. The midfielder attempted a first-time strike, and the ball deflected off a defender to elude the goalkeeper from just outside the box.

The Golden Eagles displayed heightened aggression in their offensive strategy, which bore fruit in the 50th minute. Sairon Albuquerque executed a perfect cross from a free-kick taken near the halfway line.

Rahul Peter Rodrigues found himself unmarked in the box and expertly headed the ball past Mohun Bagan Super Giant's goalkeeper Priyansh Dubey, extending the lead to 2-0. The Goan team held onto their lead despite fierce attempts from the Mariners to equalize, securing three vital points.

Meanwhile, Classic FA achieved their third consecutive victory by narrowly defeating Mumbai City FC 1-0 in the afternoon match. A first-half goal from Md. Arbash proved sufficient for the Manipur-based team to claim all three points.

The midfielder skillfully controlled the ball after a long throw-in and struck it with his left foot to beat the goalkeeper from within the box. This win keeps the competition in Group B tight, leading up to the final matchday on April 5, where two teams will advance to the RFDL National Championship.

Earlier on Tuesday, East Bengal FC faced a narrow defeat of 1-0 against Kickstart FC. A free-kick from Laikhuram Ricky Singh in the 45th minute was headed back by Saikhom Borish Singh, allowing Bishwas Budha Chhetri to capitalize and score the only goal.

The Karnataka team maintained their lead until the final whistle, securing three points. The match also ended with three players being sent off due to misconduct, including Kickstart's Paotinmang Tuboi and East Bengal substitutes Andrews A and Muhammed Roshal.