Pruthvesh pednekar

Hosts Aizawl FC: Hosts Aizawl FC failed to capitalise on their chances as they settled for a goalless draw against newly-promoted Dempo SC in the I-League 2024-2025 match at the RG Stadium here on Saturday, After a nine-year-long hiatus, Dempo Sports Club, who have a rich history that includes five National Football League and I-League Championships titles, made their highly-anticipated return to the 2024-25 I-League following their successful promotion campaign last season.

Aizawl FC, though, were the more dominant side in the first half of the match. Buoyed by the support of the home crowd, they aggressively pushed forward, resulting in earning seven corners within the first 45 minutes. However, Aizawl failed to capitalise on these set-piece opportunities, much to the disappointment of their fans.

Aizawl also explored long-range efforts to breach the Dempo defence. The first significant attempt came from Lalhriatpuia, who unleashed a powerful strike from 25 yards out. However, Dempo’s goalkeeper, Ashish Sibi, was up to the challenge, skilfully fisting the shot away in the 38th minute.