Chanmari FC savored their inaugural IFL 2025-26 triumph, edging Shrinidi Deccan FC 2-1 in a Saturday showdown at Aizawl’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium. Substitute Lalruatsanga’s last-gasp strike in added time not only secured the points but vaulted the promoted outfit to second place with four points, relegating Shrinidi to third.
Coaches on both benches shuffled their packs: Chanmari’s Victor Lalbiakmawia started Jota, the Brazilian forward, ahead of Aaron Vanlalerinchana. Shrinidi Deccan, under Carlos Manuel Vaz Pinto, turned to Aryan Neeraj Lamba in goal amid Bhaskar Roy’s absence.
Play meandered slowly early on, with possession battles trumping attacking flair. Shrinidi Deccan ramped up the pressure mid-half, creating waves of attacks. Missed chances by Hardik Bhatt and Fabrice Kah kept halftime scoreline at 0-0.
Chanmari finally clicked into gear, breaking through via Jota’s exquisite finish from Suangkhammuna’s assist, exploiting Shrinidi’s backline error for a 1-0 advantage.
Shrinidi roared back with Paulo Cesar’s brilliant headed equalizer off Hardik Bhatt’s cross at the 80-minute mark, restoring parity and heightening drama.
Five minutes of extra time promised a share of spoils, but Lalruatsanga’s clinical conversion of Jota’s assist at 90+3′ shattered Shrinidi’s hopes. Chanmari’s resilience shines through, marking a pivotal moment in their league journey.