Sreenidi Deccan FC defeated league leaders Diamond Harbor FC 2-1 in the Indian Football League at the Kalyani Stadium in Kalyani on Sunday, with first-half goals from Brandon Vanlalremdika and David Castañeda proving decisive.
The Deccan Warriors took the lead in the 44th minute through Brandon’s well-taken free-kick and doubled their lead in first-half stoppage time when Castaneda struck. Hugo Diaz reduced the deficit from the penalty spot in the second half.
With the win, Sreenidi Deccan moved to 21 points and third in the rankings, while Diamond Harbor remained on top with 25 points. Brandon was named Player of the Match.
Diamond Harbor were reduced to 10 men within the opening minute after Sunday’s Afolabi was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Ajay Chhetri. While contesting a loose ball, Afolabi caught Ajay high on the ankle, leaving the referee little choice but to send him off.
Despite the early setback, Diamond Harbor dominated possession and continued to threaten. Ramdinthara tested Kamaljit Singh with a powerful left-foot strike, but the shot went straight at the goalkeeper. Shortly afterwards, Mikel Kortazar drilled in a low cross from a set routine, which was cleared before it could reach Jobby Justin.
Just before the drinks break, the home team created the best chance of the half. Jobby made space in the penalty area and the ball fell kindly to Díaz, whose effort was tipped over the crossbar by Kamaljit, to which the goalkeeper reacted sharply.
Sreenidi Deccan, who struggled to create chances, needed a moment of quality to break the deadlock. Brandon, who had won the free-kick after being brought down by Kortazar, curled a brilliant effort into the top right corner, out of the reach of Dheeraj Singh.
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The visitor doubled the lead in injury time. Castañeda drove forward into the penalty area and, as the defenders retreated, unleashed a powerful strike past the goalkeeper.
Diamond Harbor started the second half on the front foot and were given a lifeline around the hour mark when a penalty was awarded after Hadi Idrissou handled the ball in the penalty area. Díaz converted with a firm strike.
Head coach Kibu Vicuña responded with a three-way substitution, introducing Bryce Miranda, Paul Ramfangzauva and Kevin Ademola. The changes created urgency, with Moyano linking up well with Bryce and Ademola, although the latter could not keep his header from Bryce’s cross.
Sreenidi Deccan dropped deeper in the closing stages and invited pressure as Diamond Harbor pushed for an equalizer. The numerical disadvantage began to show, with the home team often lacking presence in attacking areas.
Jobby headed wide from a promising position, while substitute Lalliansanga Renthlei saw a long shot flash past the post. In the closing moments, Bryce delivered a dangerous cross for Ademola, whose effort was saved by Kamaljit.
Diamond Harbor continued to send balls into the penalty area, but Sreenidi Deccan defended resolutely. Kamaljit also controlled his area well to help the visitor see through the match and secure three crucial points.
Published on May 3, 2026
