I-League 2024-25: Inter Kashi Ascends to Top After 1-0 Victory Against 10-Man Delhi FC
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Synopsis
In a thrilling I-League 2024-25 encounter, Inter Kashi secured a pivotal 1-0 victory against a 10-man Delhi FC, courtesy of Nikola Stojanovic's stunning free-kick. This win places Inter Kashi at the top of the table, while Delhi FC continues to struggle at the bottom.
Key Takeaways
- Inter Kashi's win elevates them to the top of the I-League standings.
- Nikola Stojanovic scored the decisive goal with a free-kick.
- Delhi FC remains bottom of the table after a 10-match winless streak.
- Delhi FC's goalkeeper received a red card just before halftime.
- Inter Kashi struggled to convert opportunities despite a man advantage.
Mahilpur, Feb 26 (NationPress) Serbian Nikola Stojanovic executed a superb free-kick in the 77th minute, securing a vital 1-0 victory for Inter Kashi against a tenacious Delhi FC in the I-League 2024-25 at the Coach Ali Hassan Stadium on Wednesday. This win propelled the Antonio Lopez Habas-led team to the top of the league table with 31 points from 16 matches.
Conversely, Delhi FC remains at the bottom of the standings, managing only 10 points from their 16 matches and facing challenges in evading relegation. Their winless run has now reached 10 matches.
The home team was reduced to ten players when goalkeeper Debnath Mondal received a red card just before halftime. The match commenced with high hopes for Inter Kashi, but Delhi FC's organized defense thwarted their efforts, making it difficult for Inter Kashi to break through.
Struggling to find clear scoring opportunities, Inter Kashi resorted to crossing the ball from the wings. Despite strong performances from Bryce Miranda and Narayan Das, the forwards failed to capitalize on these chances.
Things shifted in favor of Inter Kashi just before halftime when Delhi FC's goalkeeper Mondal was sent off following a reckless tackle on Matija Babovic, who was advancing towards the goal. Despite having the numerical advantage, Inter Kashi found it challenging to exploit the situation as Delhi’s defense remained resolute.
In the 64th minute, Inter Kashi created a goal-scoring opportunity when Miranda sent a high cross into the box. Babovic attempted to score with a header, but substitute goalkeeper Lalmuansanga made a remarkable diving save to keep the match scoreless.
The breakthrough finally came for Inter Kashi in the 77th minute. After being awarded a free kick from 21 yards out, Stojanovic stepped up and skillfully curled the ball over the wall, beating goalkeeper Lalmuansanga. This marked Stojanovic's sixth goal of the season, reinforcing his status as a key player for Inter Kashi.
In stoppage time, Inter Kashi had a chance to extend their lead from another set-piece, but Mario Barco's header from a corner struck the crossbar. However, this missed opportunity did not affect the outcome as they secured a narrow victory.
