Jaipur/Fatorda, April 6 (NationPress) In a crucial top-four encounter of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26, Rajasthan United FC is set to clash with Gokulam Kerala FC at the Vidhyadhar Nagar Stadium in Jaipur this Tuesday. Following that match, Dempo SC will host Shillong Lajong FC at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, as they search for their first win of the season.

Rajasthan United FC aims to capitalize on their recent 2-0 victory over Chanmari FC, which has propelled them to a total of 11 points from six matches.

Head coach Vikrant Sharma emphasized the need to keep the positive momentum going. “Winning should become a habit. We have performed well so far, and I want the players to maintain this form. Our home advantage has been significant, and we aim to continue this streak,” he stated.

Defender Abdul Samed stressed the game's significance. “This match is vital for us. A win will greatly reinforce our position within the top six,” he said. Rajasthan continues to employ a possession-focused strategy, building from the back to dominate the match's pace.

Gokulam Kerala FC travels to Jaipur following a 4-2 triumph over Aizawl FC, which has placed them fourth on the table with eight points from six games.

Head coach Dimitris Dimitriou acknowledged the challenges presented by the away game. “Rajasthan is among the league's top teams. They have the home advantage and a diverse pool of talent, but we will stick to our game plan and strive for another victory,” he remarked.

Rahul Raju added, “Our last game, where we scored four goals, has greatly boosted our confidence. We want to carry that energy into this match and secure all three points.”

Historically, the head-to-head record favors Gokulam Kerala, with six wins out of eight previous encounters, and the remaining two matches ending in draws. They have netted 17 goals compared to Rajasthan's three. In their latest meeting on March 9, 2025, Gokulam achieved a commanding 3-0 victory in Jaipur.

Dempo SC returns to their home ground seeking their first win of the season. Currently ninth in the league with three points, they recently settled for a 1-1 draw against Namdhari FC.

Head coach Samir Naik highlighted the necessity of maintaining defensive discipline. “Consistency is essential for us. Shillong is a well-structured team with talented attackers. We need to remain compact and be effective in front of the goal,” he remarked.

Midfielder Amay Morajkar stated, “We have put in considerable effort during training and aim to deliver a remarkable performance for our fans.”

Shillong Lajong FC approaches this match following a 0-0 draw against Sreenidi Deccan FC, keeping them at the top of the table with 11 points.

Head coach Birendra Thapa anticipates a challenging match. “Dempo is currently like a wounded tiger and will come back fiercely. Their experienced players can turn the tide, so we must remain vigilant,” he warned.

Gladdy Nelcen Kharbuli noted the team’s recent improvements. “Our performances have enhanced, especially in terms of possession, defense, and chance creation,” he mentioned. Lajong relies on high-intensity pressing coupled with quick transitions.

In their past 12 encounters, Dempo has claimed victory in six matches against four wins for Shillong Lajong, with two matches resulting in draws. Dempo has scored a total of 21 goals to Lajong's 13. Their most recent clash on February 19, 2025, ended in a 2-2 draw in Margao.

As Rajasthan United and Shillong Lajong strive to solidify their standings at the top of the table, and Dempo SC seeks their first win of the season, this Tuesday's double-header is set to have significant implications for the league standings.