Srinagar, Feb 18: Real Kashmir FC secured a home victory by defeating Namdhari FC 1-0, thanks to an early goal from Paulo Cézar during their I-League match on Tuesday.
With five wins in their last seven matches, the Snow Leopards have bounced back from a mid-season slump and reasserted their presence in the 2024-25 title contention.
The Brazilian forward Paulo Cézar netted the game’s only goal via a penalty in the seventh minute.
Real Kashmir remains unbeaten at home this season, boasting six wins and three draws, now holding second position with 26 points from 15 matches.
Conversely, the Punjab team is struggling, having won only once in their last five encounters, which has significantly impacted their championship aspirations.
Inter Kashi, who face SC Bengaluru later in the day, are currently situated in fourth with 24 points from 14 matches. The outcome of this match has ensured that Churchill Brothers, currently at 28 points, will retain the top position on the table until the conclusion of Round 15, at the very least.
Real Kashmir showcased their typical confidence at home and started strongly. Karim Samb won the penalty after being fouled by Joseph Gordon. Paulo Cézar converted the penalty, expertly sending goalkeeper Jaspreet Singh the wrong way to secure his sixth goal of the season and give the hosts the lead.
The Snow Leopards could have doubled their advantage in the 20th minute had it not been for a remarkable last-minute tackle by former Real Kashmir defender Lamine Moro.
Karim Samb was through on goal after being set up by Asrar Rehber, rounding Jaspreet and seemingly facing an open net, only for Moro to execute a stunning slide tackle, just getting a touch on the ball a yard out from the goal.
Mohammad Inam, who previously scored Real Kashmir’s decisive goal against Gokulam Kerala, demonstrated his energy once again.
Just before half-time, he powered through and unleashed a strong shot that Jaspreet managed to parry away. The hosts kept the pressure on, with Asrar assisting Karim Samb, whose shot was blocked by Harpreet Singh as Namdhari fought hard on defense.
The visitors were uncharacteristically muted in their offensive efforts during the first half, and their star player, Cledson Carvalho da Silva, was eager to make an impact in the second half. Struggling for support in attack, he had to rely heavily on individual efforts.
In the 62nd minute, he finally found some space behind Aminou Bouba and attempted to chip the goalkeeper, but the effort went slightly wide.
Later, Cledson superbly maneuvered past two defenders, firing a shot from outside the box, only to be thwarted by a quick block from captain Muhammad Hammad. (PTI)
