Kalyani, March 2 (NationPress) Real Kashmir FC remains in the race for a top position in the I-League 2024-25 after pulling off a surprising 3-1 victory against Inter Kashi at the Kalyani Stadium on Sunday.

The visitors recorded their second away win in 17 matches, taking a 2-0 lead by halftime.

This outcome pushed Inter Kashi off the top of the leaderboard, although they are still tied on 31 points with Churchill Brothers, having played 17 games. Real Kashmir climbed to within two points of the two leaders, now sitting at 29 points in third place.

Abdou Karim Samb (37’), Paulo Cézar (45+5’), and Gnohere Krizo (90+6’) were the scorers for the winning side, while Mario Barco (90+5’) netted the only goal for Inter Kashi.

In stark contrast to the game’s later events, it was Inter Kashi that began with more vigor, with Domingo Berlanga and Bryce Miranda displaying impressive synergy to penetrate Real Kashmir’s defense.

Real Kashmir handled the pressure effectively and, as has been their style, gradually asserted their physical and tactical dominance. Leveraging their strong forwards, they continually challenged Kashi’s aerial defense, yet the first goal came from skillful ground play.

After creating space on the right flank, Ocran Idan delicately passed the ball to Karim Samb in the box. The Senegalese forward, often criticized for missed opportunities, seized this chance impeccably. Despite a challenging angle, he executed a flawless first-time volley over Arindam Bhattacharya into the far corner of the Kashi net.

Buoyed by their lead, Kashmir continued to press. Shortly after, Karim Samb missed a header from a corner that could have extended their lead. However, just before halftime, they did double their advantage. Rising highest to meet a free kick from the left, Brazilian Paulo Cézar got the slightest touch to send it into the net.

Kashi appeared to lack creativity throughout the match and failed to improve as the game progressed. Their best chance came late when Bijoy V headed over from close range. Spanish substitute Mario Barco managed to score for the home team in the fifth minute of stoppage time, but this late surge was ultimately in vain.

Immediately following the restart, Real Kashmir advanced the ball upfield, with Lalramsanga feeding Gnohere Krizo inside the box. The Ivorian made a quick turn and smoothly slid the ball into the bottom corner, securing all three points for Real Kashmir.