Srinagar: A late dramatic comeback by visitors Real Kashmir FC handed them a valuable draw against home side Aizawl FC at the RG Stadium here, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
Despite taking the lead through Lalrinzuala in the 56th minute, Aizawl saw their advantage nullified by Shahid Nazir’s strike in the 90th minute.
The draw pushes Real Kashmir back to third place in the league standings with nine points from six games, while Aizawl are at the 10th spot, having gathered six points from an equal number of matches.
The first half was marked by a lack of sharpness in attack, with neither team willing to take risks, resulting in minimal goalmouth action.
In the 38th minute, Real Kashmir FC had big opportunity. Mohammad Aqib’s long throw caused confusion in Aizawl’s defence, but Yousuf’s powerful shot from outside the box was again saved by the vigilant Lalramchhana.
After the break, Aizawl FC increased their intensity and broke the deadlock in the 57th minute. Lalrinzuala, combining well with Augustine Lalrochana, skillfully maneuvered through the Real Kashmir defence with his ace to score past Real Kashmir goalkeeper Mohammad Arbaz in an one-on-one position. This goal sparked hope of a victory for Aizawl FC, something they desperately needed after they failed to retain their lead in their last match against Rajasthan United FC.
However, their efforts were undone late in the game. Real Kashmir, showing resilience despite lesser possession in the second half, equalised from a set-piece in the final moments. Aqib’s free-kick was initially thwarted by Lalramchhana, but the rebound fell to Nazir, who made no mistake in converting the chance, ensuring his team walked away with a point.
The match’s closing stages saw further drama when Aizawl’s captain Lalruatthara received his second yellow card for a rash challenge, leaving his team with 10 men.