Introduction
As the I-League 2024-25 season wraps up, the Churchill Brothers have provisionally clinched the top spot on the leaderboard after a gripping 1-1 draw against Real Kashmir FC in Srinagar. However, their championship dreams and possible advancement to the Indian Super League rest on an upcoming decision by the AIFF Appeal Committee.
Drama on the Final Day
The race for the I-League title remained heated up until the last game, with multiple teams holding potential claims for the crown:
- Churchill Brothers ended their campaign with a solid 40 points after their match in Srinagar.
- Inter Kashi followed closely, amassing 39 points with a thrilling last-minute victory over Rajasthan FC.
- Dempo SC took down Gokulam Kerala in a nail-biting 4-3 win, showcasing a final push in the seven-goal thriller at Kozhikode.
Key Decisions Pending
The potential twist in the tale lies with Inter Kashi, who are challenging a previous game result that could boost their points to 42. This challenge concerns an earlier season match where their opponents, Namdhari SC, fielded an ineligible player, initially leading to a forfeit win and three additional points for Inter Kashi. However, this decision is on hold, pending a final ruling by the AIFF Appeal Committee scheduled for April 28.
Impact of the AIFF’s Verdict
If the AIFF Appeal Committee rules in favor of Inter Kashi, they will not only top the league table but also secure a historic promotion to the ISL, completing a remarkable ascent in just their second season. This verdict holds significant implications for the teams involved, particularly for Churchill Brothers, whose title and promotion hopes hang precariously in the balance.
Final Standings and Outcomes
While the Churchill Brothers demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the season, their final standoff at Real Kashmir proved challenging. They needed a complete victory to secure the title outright but had to settle for a draw. Contrarily, Inter Kashi captivated fans with their stoppage-time heroics in Kalyani, keeping the title chase electrifying up to the last whistle.
The coming days are crucial for the Churchill Brothers as they await the AIFF’s pivotal decision, which could either affirm their championship victory or pivot the glory towards Inter Kashi.
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Last Updated: April 6, 2025
