In a surprising turn of events, Real Kashmir FC triumphed over Sreenidi Deccan FC with a score of 2-0 during their IFL 2025-26 match held at the TRC Stadium on Sunday. Goals from Ahteeb Ahmad Dar and Oinam Sanatomba Singh were pivotal in this victory, which significantly boosts the Snow Leopards' chances of avoiding relegation, moving them up to ninth place in the standings. Meanwhile, Sreenidi Deccan FC missed a chance to secure the second spot, finishing the first round with 15 points. Marius Obekop was named Player of the Match for his two assists and exceptional overall performance.

The match kicked off with fierce aerial battles, but Sreenidi Deccan FC quickly took control. They dominated possession and posed an early threat, with David Castaneda testing goalkeeper Furkan Ahmad Dar with a header from a Chhangte cross in the seventh minute. The Hyderabad team maintained the pressure, earning four corners within the first 27 minutes. Real Kashmir FC played defensively, focusing on set-pieces, including a dangerous free-kick after Shedrack Charles was fouled by Ajay Chhetri in the 34th minute.

Despite being on the back foot for most of the half, Real Kashmir managed to score just before halftime. In the 45th minute, Obekop pulled Jagdeep Singh wide and crossed to Basit Ahmed Bhat. His initial attempt was saved by Kamaljit Singh, but Ahteeb Ahmad Dar was quick to react, finishing with a left-footed shot to give Real Kashmir a 1-0 lead at halftime.

After the break, Sreenidi Deccan FC came out aggressively, seeking an equalizer, but they faced a strong defense from Real Kashmir. As the game progressed, the pace slowed, and Sreenidi struggled to create clear chances. Real Kashmir nearly extended their lead in the 82nd minute when Obekop made a precise pass, but Kamaljit executed a remarkable save to keep Sreenidi in the game.

In the 88th minute, Sanatomba made a crucial goal-line clearance to deny Sreenidi after Furkan was beaten. With seven minutes of stoppage time added, Real Kashmir effectively managed the game and earned a corner. From a short corner in the 93rd minute, Obekop found Sanatomba, who scored with a stunning long-range effort, sealing the match at 2-0.

This victory marks the conclusion of the first stage of the Star Cement IFL, which comprised 45 matches. The final standings have been established as the league transitions into two phases. Diamond Harbour FC topped the table with 22 points, leading by five points. They will be joined in the Championship Phase by Shillong Lajong FC (17 points), Rajasthan United FC (17 points), Sreenidi Deccan FC (15 points), Chanmari FC (11 points), and Dempo Sports Club (9 points), all vying for the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025-26 title.

Conversely, the bottom four teams will enter the Relegation Phase, fighting to maintain their league status. This group includes Aizawl FC (9 points), Real Kashmir FC (8 points), Gokulam Kerala FC (8 points), and Namdhari FC (7 points).