Dempo SC were made to settle for a point against Namdhari SC in a fiercely-contested Star Cement IFL 2025-26 fixture that promised more than it ultimately delivered. The Golden Eagles dominated large portions of the contest and created chances in abundance, but an inspired performance from Namdhari goalkeeper Niraj Kumar and a string of costly misses ensured the spoils were shared at full time.
Dempo made three changes to their starting lineup, with Marcus Joseph, Darell Mascarenhas and Nestor Dias coming in for Ariston Costa, Daniel and Mohamed Ali respectively a reshaped side that started with real purpose and intent.
The Golden Eagles were ahead inside eight minutes, Namdhari drew a foul after a deliberate push in the penalty area. Joseph stepped up and dispatched the spot-kick with authority to hand Dempo a well-deserved lead.
Richmond Owusu went close to doubling the advantage shortly after, only to see his effort drift agonisingly wide when a second goal seemed there for the taking. Joseph then spurned a golden opportunity of his own, a chance presenting itself at close range only for the striker to find Niraj Kumar’s gloves rather than the net.
Dempo’s lead, however, would not hold. A lapse in judgement from goalkeeper Ashish Sibi handed Namdhari an opening they were swift to capitalise on, Khangembam Singh pouncing to level the scores in the 31st minute. Mohamed Ali, introduced from the bench, was shown a yellow card shortly after, an added frustration as tension began to build in the closing stages of the half.
The second half saw Dempo push relentlessly in search of the winner. Saiesh Bagkar went inches wide of the post, before a sharp combination involving Pruthvesh and Ali released Joseph, only for Niraj Kumar to produce yet another stop to deny the striker. Owusu went close on two further occasions, sending one effort over the woodwork before striking the post with a powerful header late on as Namdhari’s defence held firm under sustained pressure. Sibi at the other end, produced a crucial save to ensure Dempo were not punished for their profligacy.
Dempo dominated possession and created the clearer opportunities throughout, but Namdhari’s resilience and Niraj Kumar’s outstanding display ensured the Golden Eagles could not find the winner their performance warranted.
Next Fixture: Dempo SC to host Shillong Lajong FC on 7th April, 2026
