Back-to-back positive results have changed the mood around Dempo Sports Club. A draw against Shillong Lajong and a win over Rajasthan United have given this squad exactly the kind of momentum that was missing through much of Stage 1. On Saturday, they face Chanmari FC at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl with a chance to make it three unbeaten in the Championship Round.
Head Coach Samir Naik has been consistent in his message throughout this run and nothing changes ahead of Saturday. “There is a lot of positivity lately because we have got quite good positive results,” Naik said. “It came a little bit late but the good thing is that we started winning games. That is important.”
On the conditions in Aizawl, Naik was measured. “It is always a little difficult to play here but we have prepared well,” he said. “Yesterday when we arrived it was cooler but today it was warmer almost similar to Goa.”
The squad is fully fit with Richmond Owusu the only absentee. On Chanmari FC, Naik kept his assessment straightforward. “There are no weak or strong teams in this league,” he said. “We have done some work on it and we will be ready for the challenge.”
Chanmari FC arrive at this fixture having shown enough in the Championship Round, they are a side capable of hurting any opponent on their day. Their results against Diamond Harbour and Shillong Lajong have not gone their way but the attacking intent has been there, pace in wide areas, directness in transition and the backing of a home crowd tomorrow evening that will make this a demanding fixture for Dempo.
The story of Dempo’s Championship Round so far belongs as much to Seigoumang Doungel as anyone. The midfielder from Manipur made just three starts all season and responded with the goal that won Dempo three points in Ludhiana. A calm tap-in after Vieri Colaco’s run drew defenders away composed and perfectly timed.
But what makes Doungel’s contribution more significant than the goal itself is the mentality behind it. Limited game time all season, yet never anything less than ready. “Every time I came, I was always prepared,” Doungel said. “You don’t know when you are going to get the chance. Every day I was preparing for this opportunity. Though you play or not, you have to be ready for the match every time.”
On the goal against Rajasthan United, Doungel was characteristically understated. “When the ball came there was just one defender in front of me,” he said. “When I scored, this is for the team. We got three points. That is a good thing.”
The mood in camp ahead of Saturday reflects the form. “Lots of positivity going into the next match,” Doungel said.
Saturday’s Fixture (9.05.2026)
Star Cement IFL 2025-26:
Chanmari FC vs Dempo SC, Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Aizawl. KO 6:30 PM. IST.
(Watch live on the Doordarshan Sports Channel, Waves OTT or Sony Network Channel)
