Manjeri/Aizawl, March 6 (NationPress) The former champions Gokulam Kerala FC are set to clash with Namdhari Sports Academy in the Indian Football League 2025-26 at the Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri. Meanwhile, the newly-promoted Chanmari FC will take on Sreenidi Deccan FC at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl.

Gokulam Kerala FC, who will host their matches at the Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri rather than their regular EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode, aim to deliver an improved performance after their opening match in front of local supporters.

The Malabarians, known for their potent attacking play last season, finished fourth with 45 goals but currently hold just one point after a goalless draw against Chanmari FC. Despite dominating possession under head coach Derick Pereira and creating opportunities, they failed to score.

Pereira reflected on the opening match, stating, "The first game is always a challenge in a league. The team performed admirably but could have been more precise with their chances. Overall, I am satisfied with the performance, though not with the outcome."

Veteran goalkeeper Shibin Raj Kunniyil is optimistic about returning to their home ground, saying, "The support from our fans will be tremendous. We hope to achieve a positive outcome in front of them." With this backing, the two-time I-League champions are eager to find their attacking form and secure points.

Standing against them are Namdhari FC, who also have one point following a 1-1 draw against Aizawl FC in their season opener. After trailing for much of the match, Namdhari equalized in the 96th minute thanks to a goal from Senegalese striker Abdoulaye Diallo.

Head coach Harpreet Singh acknowledged the team's initial difficulties, saying, "It was a closely contested game. It’s been a while since we played professional football, and we were a bit out of sync, but we found our rhythm in the second half."

He then recognized the tough challenge ahead in Manjeri, adding, "Facing Gokulam on their home ground with their supportive fans will be quite challenging. They possess a strong squad, and their coach has extensive experience in Indian Football. We must bring our best game."

A noteworthy aspect of this matchup is the tactical approach and historical context. Pereira noted that Namdhari plays a "typical Punjabi style of football" but cautioned that it's still early in the competition to judge any team.

Historically, Namdhari FC has a slight edge in their encounters, having won two out of their four previous I-League matches against Gokulam, with one victory for Gokulam and one draw, giving them a narrow aggregate goal advantage of 7-6. However, Gokulam's confidence is bolstered by their recent 3-1 victory over Namdhari on March 17, 2025.

The hosts, Gokulam Kerala, are eager to build on the momentum from that recent win and leave a strong mark at home, while Namdhari FC will aim to leverage their historical advantage in what promises to be a competitive match.

Chanmari FC vs Sreenidi Deccan FC

In the evening match, newly-promoted Chanmari FC will make their IFL debut at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, cheered on by their enthusiastic local fans. The Mizoram-based team, who finished as runners-up in I-League 2 last season, began their top-flight campaign with a hard-fought draw against heavyweights Gokulam Kerala.

Fielding an all-Indian lineup comprising players exclusively from Mizoram, Chanmari displayed remarkable defensive organization and teamwork, with goalkeeper Zothanmawia making pivotal saves and forward Aron Vanlalrinchhana posing a threat on the counterattack.

Sreenidi Deccan FC, known for being perennial title challengers, come into this fixture with three points after a 1-0 victory over fellow debutants Diamond Harbour FC, thanks to a goal from Fabrice Kah in the 60th minute.

Despite their opening win, head coach Carlos Manuel Vaz Pinto remains wary of the challenge posed by the newly-promoted side. "Chanmari are new to the league, and such unknown opponents are often tough to face. They are performing well, and we need to execute our game plan effectively," he remarked.

He emphasized the importance of being prepared for the demanding league ahead, stating, "The competition is intense, and we need to be ready to adapt to challenges in every match if we aim to excel in the league."

Midfielder Brandon Vanlalremdika echoed the coach's sentiments, acknowledging Chanmari's momentum after their draw against Gokulam. "Our goal is clear: we want to secure the three points," he affirmed.

Hosts Chanmari will seek to build on their promising start, while Sreenidi Deccan will count on their experience to secure a victory and take an early lead in the IFL rankings in what will mark their first-ever encounter.