I-League 2024-25: Inter Kashi Triumphs 3-1 Over Rajasthan, Churchill Brothers Hold Provisional Lead
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Synopsis
In a thrilling match at the Kalyani Municipal Stadium, Inter Kashi secured a 3-1 victory against Rajasthan United FC, scoring twice in stoppage time. Despite the win, their title hopes hinge on the outcome of an appeal related to a previous match.
Key Takeaways
- Inter Kashi kept their title dreams alive with a stoppage-time victory.
- They finished the season with 39 points, just behind Churchill Brothers.
- Rajasthan United's equalizer came from a corner kick by Oyarzun.
- Key goals in stoppage time by Muñoz and Babovic sealed the win.
- Gokulam Kerala was eliminated from title contention after a loss.
New Delhi, April 6 (NationPress) The I-League has experienced numerous exciting conclusions over the years, but few have reached the heart-stopping level of intensity seen on Sunday. At the Kalyani Municipal Stadium, Inter Kashi maintained their championship aspirations in a thrilling manner, netting twice during stoppage time to secure a 3–1 victory against Rajasthan United FC in their last league match of the 2024–25 I-League season.
While this victory was a memorable conclusion to Inter Kashi's campaign, their celebrations for the title remain on hold. They concluded the season with 39 points from 22 matches, just one point behind provisional leaders Churchill Brothers FC Goa, who finished their season with a 1-1 draw against Real Kashmir. Inter Kashi must now wait for the AIFF Appeals Committee's decision regarding the match involving Namdhari FC and Inter Kashi (Match No. 45). Meanwhile, Gokulam Kerala, another title contender, was defeated 3-4 by Dempo SC, eliminating their championship chances.
Prasanth Karuthadathkuni (12’) scored the opening goal for Inter Kashi early in the match, but Alain Oyarzun (69’) equalized for Rajasthan United in the second half. Just when it appeared the game was heading for a draw—which would have dashed their title ambitions—David Humanes Munoz (90+4’) and substitute Matija Babovic (90+7’) struck in stoppage time with two crucial goals to clinch the win.
Inter Kashi commenced the match with a clear objective—only a victory would do. They made an impressive start when Edmund Lalrindika maneuvered past two defenders to deliver a low cross. Prasanth, positioned perfectly at the far post, tapped in the opener to give his team a dream beginning.
However, instead of building on their advantage, Inter Kashi became cautious. Their forwards struggled with precision in the final third and often lost possession. Rajasthan United, having found their rhythm, began to press higher and effectively moved the ball through midfield. Their persistence paid off in the 69th minute when Oyarzun, their dependable captain, curled in a corner kick that eluded everyone, including Inter Kashi’s defenders and goalkeeper, finding the back of the net.
The equalizer prompted Inter Kashi into action. They surged forward with increased intensity, but a mix of desperate defending and poor finishing kept the score level as injury time approached. With time running out and their hopes of the title slipping away, Inter Kashi found their moment.
In the 91st minute, a corner from Nikola Stojanovic caused chaos in the box, and Muñoz seized the opportunity to smash it into the net. Just two minutes later, Babovic finished off a slick passing move with a calm strike past the goalkeeper, finalizing the match at 3–1.
