Aizawl’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium witnessed a pulsating encounter on Saturday as Chanmari FC clinched their first win of the IFL 2025-26 season with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Shrinidi Deccan FC. The match, decided by a stoppage-time heroics from Lalruatsanga, propelled the newly promoted side to second place on the points table with four points, while Shrinidi Deccan slipped to third with three.
Head coach Victor Lalbiakmawia made a bold tactical switch, bringing in Brazilian forward Joao Vitor de Paula Morais, known as Jota, to lead the attack in place of Aaron Vanlalerinchana. Shrinidi Deccan responded with their own change, handing the gloves to Aryan Neeraj Lamba after Bhaskar Roy’s injury sidelined him.
The opening quarter unfolded cautiously, with both teams prioritizing possession over risky forays. Shrinidi Deccan gradually asserted dominance as the half progressed, carving out promising chances. Hardik Bhatt and Fabrice Kah spurned golden opportunities, leaving the scoreboard blank at halftime.
Chanmari broke the deadlock just past the hour mark. Suangkhammuna’s clever assist found Jota, who unleashed a clinical finish that left goalkeeper Aryan Lamba rooted to the spot, handing the hosts a 1-0 lead.
Shrinidi Deccan mounted a fierce comeback. In the 80th minute, substitute Paulo Cesar Pereira dos Santos rose highest to nod in Hardik Bhatt’s pinpoint cross, leveling the scores at 1-1 and injecting tension into the closing stages.
With five minutes of added time signaled, a draw seemed inevitable. But Lalruatsanga had other ideas. In the 93rd minute, he latched onto Jota’s sharp pass and rifled home the winner, sparking wild celebrations among Chanmari fans and securing a precious three points in their campaign.