AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: With just three rounds remaining in I-League 2024-25, the title race is entering a decisive phase — and Churchill Brothers have a golden opportunity to pull away from the chasing pack when they take on Sreenidi Deccan FC on Sunday, March 23.

Currently leading the table with 37 points from 19 matches, Churchill hold a two-point advantage over second-placed Inter Kashi. They come into this crucial fixture fresh off a commanding 3-1 victory over Dempo SC in the Goa Derby, which not only lifted morale but also widened the gap at the summit — thanks in part to Inter Kashi’s draw with Sreenidi Deccan.

Now, with momentum firmly on their side, the Red Machines will aim to tighten their grip on the title and capitalise on the points dropped by their nearest rivals. A win on Sunday would be a major step towards reclaiming the crown, especially with the league so delicately poised.

Key to Churchill’s recent success has been the red-hot form of Wayde Lekay, who now has 11 goals to his name this season, making him the league’s third-highest scorer. The South African has been lethal in front of goal, and along with midfielders Stendly Fernandes and Trijoy Dias, forms the spine of a Churchill attack that has delivered consistently all season.

However, they won’t have it easy against Sreenidi Deccan, who held Inter Kashi to a 2-2 draw and will be looking to play the role of spoilers once again. While Sreenidi sit eighth in the table, their recent performances suggest they’re more than capable of upsetting the odds.

Meanwhile, Inter Kashi will be under pressure to respond when they face Shillong Lajong on Monday. The Antonio López Habas-coached side has 35 points from 19 games and cannot afford any more slip-ups if they hope to stay in the title conversation. Defensive lapses have cost them valuable points in recent outings, and against a spirited Lajong side — who are capable of springing surprises — Inter Kashi will need to be more resolute at the back.

Elsewhere, Real Kashmir FC and Gokulam Kerala FC remain firmly in the title picture. With 32 and 31 points, respectively, from 19 games, both sides will be eyeing three points this round to stay within touching distance of the top two.

Real Kashmir have a favourable fixture as they take on bottom-placed Delhi FC, who have been struggling throughout the season. The Snow Leopards will look to make the most of their superior form and goal threat from players like Paulo Cézar and Aminou Bouba. For Delhi, anything other than a win will confirm their relegation to I-League 2 for next season.

Gokulam Kerala, on the other hand, meet SC Bengaluru, who currently occupy 10th place. The Malabarians will view this as a must-win encounter to stay in contention and continue building pressure on the teams above, while the Golden Tigers aim to inch further away from the relegation zone.

As the title race reaches fever pitch, this round could prove to be pivotal — and any slip-up could prove costly.