I-League 2024-25: Sreenidi Deccan claim narrow win over Delhi FC

Sreenidi Deccan sit at the seventh spot in the I-League 2024-25 table.

David Castañeda Muñoz’s crucial strike sealed a 1-0 victory for Sreenidi Deccan against Delhi FC in a tightly contested I-League 2024-25 match at the Coach Ali Hassan Stadium on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

Castañeda’s goal in the 63rd minute — his 13th of the campaign — catapulted him to the top of the league’s scoring charts.

This result helped Sreenidi Deccan return to winning ways. It also propelled them to seventh position in the standings with 25 points from 18 matches with seven wins, four draws, and seven defeats.

.@sreenidideccan take home full points to escalate @Delhi_FC’s misery 😎#DFCSDEC #ILeague 🏆 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/EIUqoA00NV

— I-League (@ILeague_aiff) March 8, 2025

Delhi FC, on the other hand, continued to struggle as they remained anchored at the bottom of the table, desperate for points to escape the relegation zone but finding none on this occasion. Their record worsened to three wins, four draws, and 11 losses from 18 games.

The match began with both teams exhibiting a defensive mindset, neither willing to risk an early concession. This cautious approach resulted in a first half devoid of significant opportunities, with the play largely confined to midfield. The absence of Sreenidi Deccan’s Angel Orelien, the league’s leading assist provider with seven assists, was palpably felt as their attack lacked its usual sharpness.

The stalemate persisted into the second half, with both sides appearing hesitant and waiting for an error to exploit. The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute, following a spell of sustained pressure by Sreenidi Deccan. Faysal Shayesteh delivered a precise free-kick from the right flank, curving it at the crucial moment. Castañeda showcased his predatory instincts, finding space among Delhi FC’s defenders to meet the ball with a precise header that nestled into the bottom left corner of the goal, confirming his status as the league’s top scorer.

Jolted by the goal, Delhi FC increased their tempo in search of an equaliser. Their efforts were spearheaded by the energetic Cameroonian forward, Stephane Samir Binong, who twice came close to scoring. His initial attempt was smartly blocked by Sreenidi Deccan’s defender Eli Sabia, and despite a spirited run down the right flank that culminated in a powerful shot, his second effort sailed wide, summing up Delhi FC’s frustrations.

As the match drew to a close, Delhi FC continued to push forward, but Sreenidi Deccan’s defence held firm, ensuring they walked away with all three points. 

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