Diamond Harbour FC Claim Historic First IFL Win with 2–1 Victory Over Dempo SC

by Chandler D'silva March 9, 2026

Diamond Harbour FC celebrated a landmark moment in their history as they secured their first-ever win in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Dempo SC at the Kalyani Stadium on March 8.

The home side began the match confidently and soon gained control of possession, dictating the tempo throughout the opening half. Despite their dominance, they struggled to find the finishing touch in the final third during the early stages of the game.

The breakthrough finally came deep into first-half stoppage time. In the 45+4 minute, Diamond Harbour launched a quick counter-attack that caught the Dempo defence off guard. Spanish midfielder Antonio Moyano finished the move with a brilliant scoop over the goalkeeper to give the hosts a deserved 1-0 lead going into the break.

Dempo SC responded strongly after half-time and began pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute when Marcus Joseph showcased his individual quality by dribbling past two defenders before calmly finishing to level the score at 1-1.

The game remained open as both sides searched for a decisive goal. Diamond Harbour head coach Kibu Vicuña made a crucial substitution that changed the course of the match. In the 70th minute, substitute Bryce Brian Miranda delivered a precise cross into the penalty area where Hugo Díaz was perfectly positioned to finish clinically and restore the home side’s advantage.

Dempo nearly found another equaliser in the 76th minute when Marcus Joseph came close to scoring again, but his effort struck the crossbar. The visitors continued to apply pressure in the closing stages, especially during seven minutes of added time, but Diamond Harbour’s defence remained composed.

The final whistle confirmed a memorable 2-1 victory for Diamond Harbour FC, marking their first win in the competition and a historic milestone for the club.

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