Dempo Sports Club clinched their inaugural victory in the Star Cement Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 season by defeating Shillong Lajong FC 3-0 at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa. Despite Shillong Lajong dominating possession, Dempo’s solid defense thwarted their attempts to score, securing the win. This triumph marked Dempo SC’s first win this season, elevating them to six points, while Shillong Lajong FC, led by Birendra Thapa, maintained their fourth position with 11 points.
Samir Naik’s squad took an early lead as Marcus Joseph netted a left-footed strike in the sixth minute after a precise pass from Lajong defender Rudra Ved. The Golden Eagles extended their lead to 2-0 in the 24th minute when Kapil Hoble capitalized on a defensive error by Shillong’s goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai. Despite Shillong’s efforts, including a close header by Phrangki Buam, Dempo held a comfortable advantage at halftime.
In the second half, Dempo continued their dominance, earning a penalty in the 53rd minute after a foul on Saiesh Bagkar. Richmond Kwasi Owusu converted the penalty in the 55th minute, further solidifying Dempo’s lead at 3-0. Shillong Lajong pressed forward in search of a consolation goal but failed to find the net. Dempo had late chances to increase their lead through Cristian Damian Perez and Sebastián Gutiérrez, but the scoreline remained unchanged.
