I-League 2024-25: Aizawl FC share spoils with Real Kashmir

Real Kashmir made a brilliant late comeback in this I-League contest.

A 10-man Aizawl FC failed to learn from their mistakes as they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Real Kashmir FC in a tense I-League 2024-25 encounter at the RG Stadium here, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

Despite taking the lead through Lalrinzuala in the 56th minute, Aizawl saw their advantage nullified by Shahid Nazir’s strike in the 90th minute. The hosts’ difficulties compounded when captain Lalruatthara was sent off in injury time.

The draw leaves Real Kashmir in third place in the league standings with nine points from six games, while Aizawl are at the 10th spot, having gathered six points from an equal number of matches.

The game began cautiously with both teams looking to rebound from the losses in their previous games. The first half was marked by a lack of sharpness in attack, with neither team willing to take risks, resulting in minimal goalmouth action. Real Kashmir had the first clear chance, a result of a defensive error from Aizawl, allowing Hyder Yousuf space for a direct strike at goal. However, Aizawl FC goalkeeper Joel B Lalramchhana handled the ball comfortably.

Aizawl struggled to create substantial threats, their best attempt of the half coming when H Lalrempuia’s cross found Lalhriatpuia in a promising position, only for the forward to miss the chance.

Real Kashmir continued to press, and in the 38th minute, another opportunity arose. Mohammad Aqib’s long throw caused confusion in Aizawl’s defence, but Yousuf’s powerful shot from outside the box was again saved by the vigilant Lalramchhana.

After the break, Aizawl FC increased their intensity and broke the deadlock in the 57th minute.  Lalrinzuala, combining well with Augustine Lalrochana, skillfully maneuvered through the Real Kashmir defence with his ace to score past Real Kashmir goalkeeper Mohammad Arbaz in an one-on-one position. This goal sparked hope of a victory for Aizawl FC, something they desperately needed after they failed to retain their lead in their last match against Rajasthan United FC.

However, their efforts were undone late in the game. Real Kashmir, showing resilience despite lesser possession in the second half, equalised from a set-piece in the final moments. Aqib’s free-kick was initially thwarted by Lalramchhana, but the rebound fell to Nazir, who made no mistake in converting the chance, ensuring his team walked away with a point.

The match’s closing stages saw further drama when Aizawl’s captain Lalruatthara received his second yellow card for a rash challenge, leaving his team with 10 men.

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