Dempo SC Faces Churchill Brothers In Thrilling Goan Derby

Dempo SC is preparing to battle against Churchill Brothers in the much-anticipated Goan Derby at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda today, March 19, 2025, starting at 4:30 PM. Following a dominant 8-1 victory against SC Bengaluru, the Golden Eagles are brimming with confidence. Trinidadian striker Marcus Joseph was the standout performer, netting a hat-trick and supported by his teammates Holicharan Narzary, Ignacio Mera, Damian, Hayden Hoble, and Lukman Adefemi, all of whom contributed to the scoreline. Despite SC Bengaluru's Henry Kisseka scoring a consolation goal, Dempo's victory was never in doubt.

The head coach of Dempo SC, Samir Naik, expressed optimism about his team's performance and growing chemistry. “The mood in the camp has always been good, but now the boys are even more confident. We had a few foreign players join us late, but now the team is gelling well. It’s a completely different side now, and we have plenty of options,” he stated, highlighting the team's recent improvement.

On the other hand, Churchill Brothers enter the fray with their own momentum after overpowering Shillong Lajong 6-1. Sebastian Gutierrez led the charge with a brilliant hat-trick, while Matar Dieye and Cédric Lekay also added to the tally. An unfortunate own goal by Shillong's Ranit Sarkar further exacerbated their woes, though Rudwere managed to score a consolation.

Looking ahead to the derby match, Coach Naik acknowledged the rivalry's significance. “We are ready, but this is a big test for us. It’s a crucial match for both clubs,” he mentioned, stressing the importance of the upcoming battle.

With the league standings in mind, Churchill Brothers currently lead, sitting comfortably at the top with 34 points from 18 matches. Dempo SC trails behind in ninth place, having accumulated 22 points from the same number of fixtures. Naik has a solid squad at his disposal, with most foreign players fit for action, although he confirmed the setback of two injuries. “All our foreign players are fit, though we have two injuries. But we have solid replacements,” he said, ensuring a confident approach heading into the crucial match.

Naik also reached out to Dempo supporters, urging them to fill the stands at Fatorda. “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,” he said. His plea emphasizes the significance of fan presence in what he described as the “real Goan Derby.”

As fans gear up for this electrifying encounter, the stakes are high not just for the teams on the field but for the pride and legacy of Goan football. The atmosphere promises to be charged as both clubs vie for supremacy in what is expected to be a thrilling match. With high expectations from both sides, football enthusiasts are bound to witness an unforgettable display of talent, passion, and fierce rivalry.