HYDERABAD — Sreenidi Deccan FC delivered when it mattered most on Sunday, defeating Chanmari FC 2-1 in their final Indian Football League fixture to claim the 2025-26 IFL championship. The Hyderabad-based club entered the match knowing only a victory would suffice, and their players responded with a composed and clinical display that secured the title in dramatic fashion.

Deccan took the lead in the 34th minute through a well-worked team move, with the striker slotting home after a precise through ball split the Chanmari defence. The northeast club levelled briefly early in the second half, raising tension among the Deccan faithful, but the hosts reasserted control with a decisive goal on 67 minutes to restore their advantage and ultimately see out the match.

Chanmari FC, representing Mizoram, had themselves harboured title ambitions coming into the fixture and made Deccan work hard throughout. The visitors showed the discipline and organisation that had carried them through much of the season, but ultimately could not prevent the Hyderabad side from claiming top honours in Indian football's second tier.

Sreenidi Deccan's title win caps a strong season for the club, which has become one of the more ambitious projects in Indian club football. The IFL championship also carries significant implications for promotion discussions and AFC Cup eligibility pathways, making the result consequential well beyond the trophy itself.

Coach and club management celebrated with players and staff after the final whistle, acknowledging a gruelling season-long campaign. The result marks a significant milestone for Deccan as they continue to build toward sustained success in the Indian football pyramid.