Halicharan Narzary's Double Strike Secures Diamond Harbour FC's 3-1 Win Over Chanmari FC in IFL 2025-26
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Kalyani, April 11 (NationPress) A stunning second-half brace from Halicharan Narzary in just two minutes propelled Diamond Harbour FC to a 3-1 triumph over Chanmari FC during the Star Cement Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 at the Kalyani Stadium in Kolkata on Saturday.
This victory allowed Diamond Harbour FC to maintain their unbeaten streak, now extended to seven matches, and to create a five-point lead at the top of the league table. Despite taking an initial lead, Chanmari FC could not sustain their advantage. Halicharan Narzary received the accolade of Player of the Match.
In preparation for this match, Diamond Harbour FC's head coach Kibu Vicuna implemented three changes, introducing Hugo Diaz, Robilal Mandi, and Melroy Melwin Assisi into the starting lineup.
On the other hand, Chanmari FC's head coach Dipankur Sharma opted to keep the same starting eleven from their previous match against Real Kashmir FC.
The game commenced with Diamond Harbour FC taking control from the very first whistle.
The home team generated multiple chances but was thwarted by the crossbar and determined defense from Chanmari. Luka Majcen narrowly missed with a shot that sailed just over the crossbar, while Robilal Mandi struck the crossbar within the first seven minutes. Shortly after, Joby Justin's header was cleared off the line by a defender.
Despite taking 13 shots and creating eight opportunities in the first half, the hosts were unable to score. Chanmari FC, while struggling to maintain possession, managed to survive the first half without conceding any goals. The visitors shocked everyone by taking the lead in the 48th minute. Following clever footwork from Jota that earned a free-kick, Marlon took a powerful shot, beating Dheeraj to make it 1-0.
After scoring, Chanmari FC enjoyed a strong spell of fifteen minutes, showcasing improved possession. However, Diamond Harbour FC gradually regained their rhythm and began launching consistent attacks.
The hosts' efforts paid off in the 73rd minute when a cross from Halicharan Narzary led to an error from Marlon, who accidentally turned the ball into his own net, equalizing the score. Diamond Harbour FC ramped up their pressure, with an Antony Moyano free-kick being tipped over by the goalkeeper and a header cleared off the line by Jota. The team finally took the lead in the 81st minute when Halicharan intercepted a wayward pass from Papuia and scored from a swift counter-attack, despite a slight deflection from Lalruatdika.
Just two minutes later, Halicharan Narzary found the net again, skillfully sliding the ball past the diving goalkeeper to extend the lead. The assist from Tharpuia was exceptional, and another precise finish from the Assamese player gave Diamond Harbour a two-goal advantage in a matter of minutes.
Diamond Harbour FC maintained control in the remaining minutes, concluding the match with a definitive 3-1 victory in front of their supportive crowd.