Diamond Harbour FC Script Dream Debut As Late Goal Seals IFL Title And ISL Promotion

Diamond Harbour FC produced a remarkable debut season story on Sunday, clinching the Indian Football League title and securing promotion to the Indian Super League after a tense 1-1 draw against Dempo SC in Margao.

Needing just a point to secure the championship, Diamond Harbour FC were tested in a high pressure contest where Marcus Joseph put Dempo SC ahead in the 50th minute, shifting momentum firmly in favour of the home side at the PJN Stadium.

For much of the match, the debutants struggled to find fluency, while Dempo SC looked sharper in attack and created several dangerous openings through Sebastián Gutiérrez and Marcus Joseph , but failed to extend their lead.

As the game moved into its final stages, rain and pressure made conditions even tougher for both sides. Just when defeat seemed possible for the visitors, a stoppage time moment changed everything.

In the 90+1 minute, substitute Girik Khosla delivered a precise cross into the box and Hugo Díaz rose highest to power a crucial header into the net, stunning the home crowd and bringing relief to the visitors.

That late equaliser not only earned a vital draw but also confirmed Diamond Harbour FC as champions on 29 points, completing a rapid rise through the divisions after successive promotions.

From newcomers in the system to champions in their first top flight campaign, the club’s journey now ends in a historic promotion to the Indian Super League , marking one of the most dramatic breakthroughs in recent Indian football history.