In a highly anticipated Goan Derby, Churchill Brothers FC will face off against Dempo SC on March 19, 2025, at 4:30 PM at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda. This encounter is not just a clash of local rivals but also a crucial match in the I-League 2024-25, with both teams looking to strengthen their standings as the season heads towards its finale.
Churchill Brothers currently leads the league table with 34 points from 18 matches, firmly establishing themselves as contenders for the title. They are looking to secure their third I-League championship, having demonstrated impressive form throughout the season. The last encounter between these two teams saw Churchill winning 2-0, which has added to the pressure on Dempo as they seek to avenge that loss.
Dempo SC, on the other hand, finds themselves in a more precarious position, standing ninth with just 22 points from 18 matches. Despite their struggles this season, they are riding a wave of momentum from a remarkable 8-1 victory against SC Bengaluru. Dempo's forward, Marcus Joseph, has been a standout performer, scoring a hat-trick in that match, showcasing his scoring abilities. Coach Samir Naik has acknowledged the difficulties of facing a strong opponent, stating, "We know that we will face a good team, and we are playing on our home ground. It is an important match for us. We will play according to our plans and achieve our goal of winning.”
Naik's confidence reflects a growing belief within the team after their recent performance, but he is also cautionary about the strength of their opponents. "Churchill Brothers have high-level players, and we know that they have also added new players to strengthen their ranks. But we know ourselves well and we know our capabilities," he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Churchill’s head coach, Dimitris Dimitriou, comes into the match expecting a challenging encounter. Emphasizing the importance of the derby, he stated, "We know that it will be a strong match against a strong team. We will face a dangerous attack. I studied the Dempo team, and it is one of the strongest matches for us.”
Churchill also heads into this game fueled by their recent 6-1 victory over Shillong Lajong, where Sebastian Gutierrez netted a hat-trick. The team has shown resilience, especially given the challenges they’ve faced throughout the season, and they're motivated to maintain their leading position.
With the I-League reaching a critical point, every game matters. Real Kashmir FC sits third with 32 points, just two points behind Churchill, while Inter Kashi FC, also at 34 points, provide fierce competition. The stakes are undeniably high for both teams, particularly Dempo. If they can capitalize on their recent success and disrupt Churchill's title charge, it would not only breathe life into their campaign but also serve as a huge morale boost.
This derby promises to be filled with excitement, not only for the players on the pitch but also for fans, many of whom are sure to show support at Fatorda. Coach Naik has issued an appeal to Dempo’s supporters, urging them to fill the stands: "We’ve seen great support at Raia, but we need the fans at Fatorda. Churchill fans will be there, and we don’t want this to feel like an away game. This is the real Goan Derby—it’s going to be massive.”
For those unable to attend, the match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 2, as well as available for streaming on the newly launched SSEN app. As tensions rise and predictions swirl, the players will step onto the pitch, where the atmosphere will be electric, setting the stage for a fierce battle between two passionate teams.
As the Goan Derby unfolds, all eyes will be on these two clubs, not just for the score but also for the pride associated with the rivalry and the implications this match holds for the I-League standings. Regardless of the outcome, the clash between Dempo SC and Churchill Brothers is poised to deliver another chapter in the storied history of Indian football.
