Delhi Football Club emerged as champions of the I-League 2 2025-26 season, securing promotion to the Indian Football League 2026-27 after a 1-1 draw against United SC at Kalyani Stadium. FC Bengaluru United also earned promotion with a 1-1 draw against GMSC at Neville D’Souza Ground in Mumbai. GMSC avoided relegation by securing a vital point to stay in I-League 2.
United SC and FC Bengaluru United both finished the season on 15 points, but Bengaluru secured promotion due to a superior goal difference. United SC’s promotion drought extended to 12 years. In the match at Kalyani Stadium, United SC started strongly but failed to capitalize on their attacking opportunities, leading to a goalless first half.
United SC took the lead in the second half through a powerful header by Susovan Ghosh from a corner kick. Delhi FC equalized with a well-executed goal by Himanshu Jangra. Despite United SC’s efforts to secure a win for promotion, Delhi FC held on for a draw, clinching the championship title and ending United SC’s promotion hopes.
FC Bengaluru United took an early lead against GMSC through Lijo K. Lalramdinsanga Ralte’s header. GMSC fought back with a goal from Shravan Shetty after Kean Lewis’s free-kick. Both teams pushed for a winner, but the match ended in a draw. FC Bengaluru United secured promotion to the Indian Football League, finishing second in the standings, while GMSC avoided relegation.
