SRINAGAR: Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) is on the cusp of making history as it prepares to take on league leaders Churchill Brothers Goa in what could be the decisive clash of the I-League 2024–2025 season. The high-stakes match, scheduled for Sunday at 4 PM, could potentially hand the Kashmir-based side its first-ever national league title.
With only one match left in the season, four teams remain in contention for the I-League crown. Churchill Brothers lead the standings with 39 points, followed by Gokulam Kerala with 37, and RKFC and Inter Kashi tied at 36 points. All teams have played 21 matches each, making Sunday’s fixtures a final test of nerve and form.
For RKFC, the scenario is straightforward yet tense. A win over Churchill Brothers would take them to 39 points. If Gokulam Kerala lose or draw their match, RKFC could lift the title — a feat never before achieved by the team since its founding. Even a win by a strong margin could tip the scales in their favour, depending on goal differences.
“This is a big moment for us, the biggest in the club’s history,” said RKFC head coach Ishfaq Ahmad at a pre-match press conference in Srinagar on Saturday. “We want to end the season on a high and maintain our unbeaten record at home. We will give everything we have.”
The match will be held in Srinagar, with arrangements in place to handle what is expected to be a large turnout. Fans have shown overwhelming support throughout the season, with packed stands becoming a regular sight — something that club owner Arshad Shawl credited as being instrumental in the team’s campaign.
Since taking over the rebuilding of RKFC last year, Shawl has focused on strengthening the squad and providing opportunities to local players. “We are proud of what we’ve built and how far we’ve come. This team represents not just a club but the hopes of an entire region,” he said.
Coach Ishfaq Ahmad echoed the sentiment, praising the squad’s consistency and the impact of homegrown talent. “Our local players have performed admirably, and this shows that Kashmir has a lot to offer to Indian football,” he said.
On the possibility of Kashmir hosting top-tier ISL matches should RKFC qualify, Ahmad said infrastructure would need upgrading. “Bakshi Stadium could be a venue if it’s properly developed,” he noted.
Midfielder Mohammad Hammad also expressed confidence and called on fans to support the team in what could be a defining match. “The fans have played a huge role in our victories at home. We will give our best for them and for Kashmir.”
Meanwhile, Churchill Brothers Goa head coach Dimitrios Dimitriou and player Lamgoulen also addressed the press, expressing their intent to finish the season strong and defend their lead at the top.
As the valley braces for what could be a landmark moment in its sporting history, all eyes will be on Sunday’s game — a match that could rewrite the footballing story of Kashmir.
