Credit: Delhi FC and AIFF Media
In a closely contested match, Delhi FC and Rajsthan United shared the spoils. Both the teams shared points with a 1-1 scoreline in a match that was played under difficult weather at the Coach Ali Hassan Football Stadium. Despite being reduced to 10 men and facing a penalty, Delhi FC’s never-say-die attitude earned them a crucial point, propelling them to 7th position in the league table.
The kick-off had to be delayed due to adverse weather and the wet pitch made it difficult for the players to control the ball. The matchday atmosphere, however, was electric, with the Mahilpur football stadium packed with enthusiastic fans and Delhi FC Ultras, braving the winter rainfall. Delhi FC came up with an innovative approach, for the first time in Indian Football; we saw a team using covers to protect the pitch from the rain, ensuring a relatively smooth and uninterrupted game.
The first half was a cagey affair, nevertheless, Delhi FC dominated the proceedings, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Their defense, marshaled by quality saves from Muansanga and the leadership of Harmanjot Khabra, remained solid, keeping the opposition at bay. The Desert Warriors gradually found their rhythm and started creating opportunities. They would have secured the lead if it was not for their poor finishing. The most notable chance came in the 15th minute when Gerard Artigas intercepted a loose ball and broke through on goal, only to sky his effort over the crossbar. The first half ended goalless, with both teams evenly matched.
The second half witnessed a similar pattern, but the introduction of Samir Binong injected new energy into Delhi FC’s attack. However, an unfortunate turn of events saw Delhi FC reduced to 10 men, following a red card in the 68th minute. James Singh was dismissed after receiving his second yellow card for a foul on Artigas. Rajasthan United was then awarded a soft penalty in the 70th minute when Arigas was deemed to be pushed from behind by Dawa Tshering. Oyarzun calmly converted it into a goal, even though goalkeeper Lalmuansanga guessed the direction correctly.
Undeterred by their numerical disadvantage, Delhi FC struck back in the 83rd minute when Samir Binong cleverly flicked on the long ball from Khabra for Okwa, who was perfectly positioned to head the ball into the net and draw level.
The final whistle blew, with Delhi FC earning a well-deserved point. The 1-1 draw against Rajasthan United was a testament to the team’s character, resilience, and determination. Delhi FC now shifts their focus to their upcoming match against Churchill Brothers on January 17th, at 2:00 pm, at the Mahilpur Football Stadium.
The drama intensified in the dying moments of the match when Delhi FC almost snatched a win. Khabra, from a free-kick, delivered a pinpoint cross to Gursimrat Singh Gill at the far post. Singh, who managed to get free from his marker Seiminmang Manchong, narrowly missed directing his header on target as the match ended 1-1.
Adding on to the cherry there was a special memorable moment at the end of the game. Delhi FC player Calvin Abhishek proposed to his partner for life in front of everyone and she accepted it for all smiles at the end of the day.
As the league table begins to take shape, Delhi FC’s hard-earned point has reignited their hopes of climbing up the ranks. With their spirit intact, Delhi FC is poised to
face the challenges ahead, armed with the knowledge that they can overcome adversity and achieve success.
