Dempo SC withstand Samaleswari’s late comeback attempt to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory, courtesy of goals from Owusu and Rane.

Dempo SC secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Samaleswari FC after surviving a late fightback in an entertaining contest. Goals from Richmond Kwasi Owusu and Laximanrao Rane gave Dempo a comfortable two-goal cushion, but Kartik Choudhary’s second-half strike set up a tense finish. Despite Samaleswari’s efforts to find an equaliser, Dempo held on to claim all three points.

Owusu Gives Dempo the First-Half Advantage

Both sides started the contest with attacking intent, but Dempo gradually found their rhythm and took the lead in the 29th minute. Richmond Kwasi Owusu broke the deadlock with a left-footed finish from the centre of the box, converting Knerkitalang Buam’s assist.

Samaleswari attempted to respond but struggled to find a breakthrough before the interval. Kartik Choudhary was booked in the 10th minute, while Dempo carried their slender advantage into the dressing room after four minutes of first-half added time.

Samaleswari made two changes at the break, introducing Kamal Issah and Sahil Harijan in an attempt to change the momentum.

Rane Doubles the Lead as Samaleswari Fight Back

Dempo strengthened their position in the 59th minute when Laximanrao Rane found the net with a right-footed effort from inside the box. Dé provided the assist as Dempo SC moved two goals clear.

However, Samaleswari refused to give up. Kartik Choudhary pulled one back in the 83rd minute, finishing with his left foot from the centre of the box after being set up by Lalhmangaihsanga Ralte.

The goal brought renewed energy to Samaleswari’s attack, while the closing stages became increasingly tense. Saiesh Bagkar, Lalhmangaihsanga Ralte and Ishan Pandita received yellow cards as the contest grew physical.
With six minutes of added time announced, Samaleswari pushed for a late equaliser. Dempo, however, managed the closing moments and protected their lead until the final whistle, sealing a 2-1 victory.