Srinagar: Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) secured third place in the I-League 2024-25 standings after a thrilling 1-1 draw against Churchill Brothers Goa at TRC Ground Srinagar on Sunday.
With this result, RKFC remained unbeaten at home throughout the season, showcasing remarkable consistency and strength on their turf.
The match was a high-voltage encounter witnessed by over 6,000 enthusiastic fans of both teams. Among the spectators were Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, his advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary Youth Services and Sports Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary Sports Council Nuzhat Gul, and representatives from team sponsors, including Livpure.
The home team started strong, netting an early goal and putting Churchill Brothers on the back foot. However, the visitors equalised later in the match, leading to a draw that ensured RKFC finished with 37 points. They stand behind Churchill Brothers (40 points) and Inter Kashi (39 points), though a pending decision from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) regarding one of Inter Kashi’s matches could potentially push RKFC into the second spot.
Real Kashmir FC, the only team from Jammu and Kashmir in the I-League, has played 11 home games this season without a single loss. The consistent support from fans and strong team performance have been central to their success.
RKFC owner Arshid Shawl expressed gratitude to the fans, sponsors Livpure and Hummel, for the support, and especially to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for attending the match. After the game, the Chief Minister interacted with players and team officials from both teams and lauded RKFC’s efforts in promoting football in the Valley. Omar also donned the RKFC jersey, symbolizing his support for the home team.
