In a nail-biting finish at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Chanmari FC overcame Shrinidi Deccan FC 2-1 to register their maiden victory in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26. Lalruatsanga’s stunning 90+3′ goal turned the tide, elevating Chanmari to second on the ladder with four points, just ahead of Shrinidi’s three.
Victor Lalbiakmawia tweaked his lineup by deploying Brazilian import Jota up top, replacing Aaron Vanlalerinchana. Shrinidi’s Carlos Manuel Vaz Pinto mirrored the move, slotting in Aryan Neeraj Lamba between the posts for the injured Bhaskar Roy.
A tentative start saw limited action in the first 15 minutes, as sides probed for weaknesses. Shrinidi Deccan seized control thereafter, peppering the Chanmari goal. Hardik Bhatt and Fabrice Kah failed to convert, ensuring a goalless first half.
The hosts struck first around the 60th minute. Capitalizing on a defensive lapse, Suangkhammuna teed up Jota for a composed strike that bewildered the keeper and put Chanmari 1-0 ahead.
Not to be outdone, Shrinidi equalized late through substitute Paulo Cesar’s towering header from Hardik Bhatt’s delivery in the 80th minute, setting up a grandstand finale.
As stoppage time ticked down, Jota’s incisive pass unlocked the defense for Lalruatsanga, whose emphatic finish in the 93rd minute clinched a memorable win. This result breathes new life into Chanmari’s season, signaling their intent in the competitive IFL.