Namdhari, Aizawl draw in Indian Football League opener

Former champions Aizawl FC and hosts Namdhari Sports Academy split points in the inaugural match of the rechristened Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 season, after they played out an entertaining 1-1 draw here on Friday.
Vanlalhriatzuala struck for the former champions in the 43rd minute to put Aizawl ahead, but Senegalese striker Abdoulaye Diallo restored parity in the sixth minute of added time ahead of the final whistle, to ensure the Punjab side came away with a point in the division two season opener.
The result was the second draw in five encounters between the two sides in the second-tier club competition’s history, with Aizawl ahead 2-1 till date.
The opening fixture of the newly rechristened Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 season saw hosts Namdhari Sports Academy and former champions Aizawl FC share the spoils in a 1-1 draw at Sri Bhaini Sahib, Punjab. Aizawl took the lead in the 43rd minute through Vanlalhriatzuala, who converted Dawnga’s cross with a precise right-footed curler past Namdhari goalkeeper Nishan Singh. Despite Aizawl’s dominance in the first half, including a missed opportunity by Omoma from close range, Namdhari fought back late to secure a point.
Aizawl coach Lalruatfela opted for a packed midfield with Zomuansanga as the lone striker, while Namdhari’s Harpreet deployed a traditional 4-4-2 featuring three Ghanaian players, including skipper Lamine Moro in defence. The People’s Club started brightly, with right-back Laldawngzuala delivering dangerous crosses early on. After conceding, Harpreet adjusted his tactics, bringing on Bhupinder Singh to strengthen midfield and later introducing Senegalese striker Abdoulaye Diallo in the 59th minute.
The second half saw Aizawl nearly double their lead when Zozoa’s curling effort was tipped onto the bar by Nishan. Namdhari pressed hard, earning cautions for Moro and coach Harpreet, while Aizawl’s Hriata also went into the referee’s book. In stoppage time, Diallo missed a golden chance by lobbing over the bar, but redeemed himself in the final minute. Lotjem’s shot rebounded off the upright, allowing Diallo to tap in the equaliser and rescue a point for the Punjab side.
The result marked the second draw in five meetings between the clubs, with Aizawl maintaining a slight historical edge at 2-1.