Aizawl FC produced a spirited second-half comeback to defeat Namdhari FC 2-1 in their Indian Football League relegation stage clash at the Deccan Arena on Wednesday.
The match began with Aizawl showing early intent, dominating possession and using the width of the pitch effectively, particularly down the left flank. However, despite their bright start, it was Namdhari who struck first just before the break in a moment of misfortune for the Mizoram-based side.
In the 43rd minute, a dangerous cross from Bhupinder Singh caused panic in the Aizawl defence, leading to an own goal by Timur Talipov, who inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. The goal handed Namdhari a crucial lead heading into half-time.
Namdhari had earlier threatened through Rohit, whose glancing header was smartly saved by Aizawl goalkeeper Vanlalhriatpuia, one of several key interventions that kept his side in the contest during the opening period.
After the interval, Aizawl returned with renewed urgency and attacking purpose. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute, albeit in another unusual fashion. A quick move down the right saw Malsawmzuala Tlangte deliver a low cross into the box, and in the ensuing scramble, substitute Kamalpreet Singh Grewal accidentally diverted the ball into his own goal, restoring parity.
With momentum now firmly on their side, Aizawl continued to push forward in search of a winner. The decisive moment arrived in the 78th minute when substitute Zomuansanga made an immediate impact. Latching onto a well-placed pass from Laltlanzova, he controlled the ball before firing a powerful low shot into the bottom corner, completing the turnaround.
Namdhari attempted to respond in the closing stages and stoppage time but struggled to convert possession into clear-cut chances, lacking precision in the final third. Aizawl’s defence held firm to secure a vital three points.
The victory lifts Aizawl to the top of the relegation stage standings with 11 points, boosting their hopes of survival. Meanwhile, Namdhari remains at the bottom with seven points, facing increasing pressure as the competition progresses.
The result underscores Aizawl’s resilience and ability to respond under pressure, turning a difficult situation into a crucial win at a defining stage of the campaign.
