AIFF Media Team 

NEW DELHI: The 2024-25 I-League continues to defy predictions, springing up surprises at every turn. As we gear up for Round 18, the spotlight falls on a tantalizing clash at Kalyani Stadium this Thursday, where Inter Kashi will host Namdhari FC. Given the unpredictable nature of the league, predicting the outcome of this match could be a fool’s errand.

Inter Kashi, despite enjoying a run of form that saw them positioned as favourites at home in their last match, faced an unexpected setback with a 3-1 defeat to Real Kashmir FC — a side previously noted for their struggles on the road. Even though Inter Kashi remained in second place, clutching tightly to 31 points from 17 matches, despite the loss, they will know that bouncing back against Namdhari will be crucial if they hope to sustain their title challenge.

On the other side, Namdhari FC have just snapped a four-match winless streak with a victory over Sreenidi Deccan FC, rekindling their own title hopes. Sitting fifth in the table with 26 points, they understand the importance of building on their recent success to climb back into the heart of the title race.

The stage is then set for a thrilling encounter, with both teams desperate to assert their championship credentials. This match however will not be just about the points on offer. It will also be about momentum and morale as the season enters its critical phase. 

Adding an extra layer of intrigue in the match will be the foreign stars of both teams. Namdhari’s attack is galvanized by Cledson Carvalho da Silva, the league’s joint second-highest scorer with 11 goals, and the creative influence of Vicente de Paula Mercedes. Inter Kashi, meanwhile, will lean on the skills of Joni Kauko, Nikola Stojanovic, and Matija Babovic to spearhead their efforts.

Elsewhere, Real Kashmir FC, buoyed by their recent victory over Inter Kashi, find themselves in third place with 29 points. They face laggards Aizawl FC next and will look to their robust defence and attacking weapons like Bouba Aminou and Abdou Karim Samb to maintain their winning form. 

As the I-League heats up, Churchill Brothers continue to lead the pack, although their grip has loosened slightly due to recent stumbles. They currently sit atop the table with 31 points from 17 games. This Friday, they face a critical challenge against Shillong Lajong FC, who are themselves not far behind in fourth place, holding 26 points from the same number of matches. This match is pivotal for both teams, with Lajong having a chance to disrupt the leaders and position themselves as genuine title contenders.

Churchill Brothers will be counting heavily on their key players to steer them back to consistent winning ways. Trijoy Savio Dias, Stendly Fernandes, and the league’s prolific scorer, Wayde Lekay, will be crucial in their quest to solidify their top spot. Their ability to perform under pressure will be vital against a motivated Lajong side.

Shillong Lajong, on the other hand, will look to leverage their local talents who have shown tremendous potential throughout the season. Their squad’s synergy and the ability to rise to the occasion against top-tier teams have made them dark horses in this year’s title race. A victory over Churchill could redefine their season, propelling them to serious title challengers.