I-League Title Race Heats Up as Churchill Brothers Hold Narrow Lead

The I-League is set for a thrilling finale as three teams remain in contention for the title with just one matchday left. Churchill Brothers currently lead the race with 39 points, but Gokulam Kerala (37 points) and Real Kashmir (36 points) are still in the hunt, ensuring a dramatic climax to the season.

The Title Contenders

• Churchill Brothers (39 pts) – A win in their final game against Real Kashmir will secure their third I-League title and first since 2013, along with promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL).
• Gokulam Kerala (37 pts) – The Malabarians kept their hopes alive with a 1-0 win over Sreenidi Deccan, thanks to Thabiso Brown’s decisive strike. They must win their last match and hope Churchill drops points.
• Real Kashmir (36 pts) – The Snow Leopards must defeat Churchill Brothers and rely on other results to clinch the title.

Head-to-Head Could Decide the Winner

If teams finish level on points, the head-to-head (H2H) record will determine the champion:

• Churchill vs. Gokulam: If both end on 40 points, Churchill wins due to their two victories over Gokulam this season.
• Churchill vs. Real Kashmir: If tied at 39 points, Real Kashmir must win by a 3-0 margin or better to overtake Churchill on H2H.

Inter Kashi’s Uncertain Fate

Inter Kashi (36 points) remains mathematically alive but needs an AIFF ruling in their favor regarding an earlier protest against Namdhari FC. If awarded three points, they could reach 39, but their title hopes still depend on Churchill losing to Real Kashmir. However, the verdict is expected only after the season concludes, leaving their fate uncertain.

Final Showdown Ahead

Churchill Brothers’ coach Dimitris Dimitriou praised his team’s resilience, calling their campaign an “A+ performance.” Captain Lamgoulen Hangshing expressed confidence ahead of their decisive clash against Real Kashmir, stating, “We know we have to win, and we are prepared.”

Meanwhile, Gokulam Kerala will look to capitalize on any slip-up, while Real Kashmir aims to play spoiler in what promises to be a nail-biting finale.

With promotion to the ISL at stake, the final matchday of the I-League is set to deliver high drama and unforgettable moments. Football fans across India will be glued to the action as the title race goes down to the wire.

Stay tuned for live updates as the I-League crowns its champion!