I-League Showdown: Real Kashmir Edge Churchill Brothers in Thriller

Srinagar, March 31, 2026 – The TRC Turf Ground in Srinagar witnessed a nail-biting I-League encounter today as Real Kashmir FC narrowly defeated Churchill Brothers 2-1. A late goal from substitute Danish Farooq sealed the victory for the Snow Leopards in front of a roaring home crowd. The win propels Real Kashmir into the top four, intensifying the race for the championship.

The match began with Churchill Brothers taking an early lead in the 12th minute through a stunning free-kick by Ansumana Kromah. The Liberian striker curled the ball past the outstretched hands of Real Kashmir goalkeeper Subhasish Roy Chowdhury, silencing the home supporters. However, Real Kashmir responded strongly, creating several chances but failing to convert them into goals.

The second half saw a revitalized Real Kashmir side emerge, determined to overturn the deficit. Their persistence paid off in the 58th minute when Brazilian midfielder Sergio Barbosa headed home from a corner kick, leveling the score. The atmosphere inside the stadium reached fever pitch as both teams pushed for the winning goal.

Real Kashmir's Late Surge Secures Victory

The decisive moment arrived in the 85th minute when Danish Farooq, who had come on as a substitute, latched onto a through ball and slotted it past the Churchill Brothers goalkeeper. The crowd erupted in celebration as Real Kashmir took the lead for the first time in the match. Churchill Brothers tried desperately to find an equalizer in the dying minutes, but the Real Kashmir defense held firm, securing a crucial victory. Reportersays, the tactical changes made by Real Kashmir's coach in the second half proved to be the difference.

Speaking after the match, Real Kashmir coach Ishfaq Ahmed praised his team's resilience. "We showed great character to come back from a goal down and win the match. The boys fought hard until the very end, and I am proud of their performance," he said.

Churchill Brothers Lament Missed Opportunities

Churchill Brothers coach Alfred Fernandes, on the other hand, expressed his disappointment with the result. "We started well and took an early lead, but we failed to capitalize on our chances. Real Kashmir were the better team in the second half, and they deserved to win," he conceded.

Real Kashmir's Sergio Barbosa was awarded the Man of the Match for his outstanding performance in midfield. His goal and overall contribution were instrumental in his team's victory. “It was a tough game, but we kept believing. This win is very important for our chances of qualifying for the championship playoff,” Barbosa told News Reporter Live after receiving his award.

Match Statistics:

• Possession: Real Kashmir 54%, Churchill Brothers 46%
• Shots on Target: Real Kashmir 7, Churchill Brothers 4
• Fouls Committed: Real Kashmir 12, Churchill Brothers 15

I-League Standings and Upcoming Fixtures

With this victory, Real Kashmir climbs to fourth place in the I-League standings with 28 points from 16 matches. Churchill Brothers remain in seventh place with 22 points from 15 matches. The I-League table is getting tighter, and every match is crucial from now on. You can follow Live Cricket Scores and Football scores on our website.

Upcoming Fixtures:

• Real Kashmir FC will travel to Kolkata to face Mohammedan SC on April 5th.
• Churchill Brothers will host Aizawl FC in Goa on April 6th.

The I-League season is heating up, and the race for the top spots is intensifying. Can Real Kashmir maintain their momentum and secure a place in the championship playoff? Only time will tell. For more Indian Sports News stay tuned with us.