
Churchill Brothers 3 (Nischal Chandan 7′, Anil Rama Gaonkar 21′, Trijoy Savio Dias 79′)
beat
Real Kashmir 1 (Paulo Cezar P, 25′)
AIFF Media Team
RAIA, GOA: Churchill Brothers returned to winning ways as they thrashed Real Kashmir FC 3-1 in an I-League 2024-25 match to regain the top position in the standings at the Raia Ground, in Goa, on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
The hosts delivered an assertive performance to move past Namdhari FC, with goals from Nischal Chandan, Anil Rama Gaonkar, and Trijoy Savio Dias, while Paulo Cezar scored for the visiting Snow Leopards.
Churchill Brothers now have 22 points in their kitty from 11 matches with seven wins, one draw and three defeats. Real Kashmir remained in the fifth spot with 16 points from 11 matches.

Following a rather surprising defeat to Rajasthan FC in their previous fixture, Churchill Brothers, under the guidance of coach Dimitris Dimitriou, showed character and intent from the outset. They played in a dynamic style which was characterised by rapid, precise passing that consistently breached the Real Kashmir defence.
Real Kashmir, on the other hand, tried to disrupt Churchill Brothers’ rhythm by slowing down the tempo but struggled to gain control over the pace of the encounter. Churchill Brothers dominated possession and effectively won midfield battles which also showed their determination to bounce back strongly.
The action started quickly with Churchill Brothers opening the scoring in the seventh minute. Chandan connected with a precisely delivered corner to head the ball past the Real Kashmir goalkeeper Mohammad Arbaz.

The first goal helped instill early momentum for the home side. And with wind in their sails, Churchill Brothers soon doubled their advantage in the 21st minute. Dias, after a swift move down the left flank, cut back for Gaonkar, who made no mistake in finding the net despite Real Kashmir’s desperate defensive efforts.
The visitors managed a brief comeback when they were awarded a penalty in the 25th minute after Chandan fouled Abdou Karim Samb in the area. Cezar took the responsibility and successfully converted the penalty, igniting hopes of a turnaround for Real Kashmir.
However, Churchill Brothers maintained their offensive pressure. They continually tested Arbaz under the bar, who was instrumental in keeping the scoreline the same. The goalkeeper was also aided by the crossbar which denied Wayde Lekay twice in the second half.
Churchill Brothers finally killed off the game in the 79th minute from another set-piece. Lalremruata’s corner found Dias, who rose highest in the crowded penalty area to head the ball into the net and ensure a critical victory.