On Friday, April 11, 2025, Diamond Harbour FC etched their name in Indian football folklore by becoming the first club to confirm promotion to the I-League 2025-26 season. The West Bengal outfit scripted history with a gritty 2-1 victory over Sports Academy Tirur in Manjeri, a result that guarantees them a top-two finish in the ongoing I-League 2 campaign.
The triumph marked a watershed moment for the club, who remain undefeated after 14 matches this season — an incredible achievement that underlines their dominance in the Indian football pyramid’s third tier.
Relentless Surge from the Third Division
Diamond Harbour’s meteoric ascent began earlier this season with their I-League 3 conquest, which granted them entry into I-League 2. Under the stewardship of head coach Kibu Vicuña, the team has continued its blistering form, tallying 34 points from 10 wins and four draws — with two fixtures still left to play.
The side’s seamless transition and continued momentum have taken fans and pundits alike by surprise. Now, with their promotion sealed, the club has set its sights on clinching the I-League 2 title. A single point from their upcoming clash against second-placed Chanmari FC on April 19 would see them crowned champions.
Kerala Conquest: Pintu and Suprodip Shine Bright
Friday’s fixture in Kerala proved decisive. The high-octane encounter saw Pintu Mahata and Suprodip Hazra emerge as heroes for the Bengal-based club.
Mahata broke the deadlock in the 61st minute with a crisp volley from 10 yards out, showcasing precision and poise. Although the hosts equalised through Aqib Nawab’s penalty six minutes later, Hazra had the final say, unleashing a sublime right-footed half-volley that kissed the top corner in the 79th minute.
With this result, Diamond Harbour added yet another feather to their already glittering cap, reinforcing their status as the division’s most consistent and feared side.
The Promotion Picture: Chanmari and Sporting Goa Battle for Final Slot
While Diamond Harbour’s journey upward is now secured, the race for the second promotion spot remains tense. Chanmari FC of Mizoram are currently second with 30 points and remain in the hunt for a historic rise of their own. Sporting Clube de Goa sit third on 25 points, reeling from a shock 2-1 defeat to relegation-threatened NEROCA FC.
Only one of these two teams will earn the coveted second ticket to next season’s I-League, making their remaining matches crucial.
Despair at the Bottom: Relegation Threat Looms Large
While celebrations erupt in Bengal, the atmosphere is gloomier at the other end of the table. KLASA FC became the first side to be relegated after a harrowing 0-7 loss to FC Bengaluru United on April 10. The result mathematically confirmed their drop to the fourth tier.
Meanwhile, fellow Manipur side TRAU FC are dangerously close to the brink. Five points adrift of city rivals NEROCA FC with only two games remaining, they must produce back-to-back wins and hope for favourable outcomes elsewhere to avoid the same fate.
Coach Kibu’s Legacy in the Making
Much of Diamond Harbour’s success has been attributed to the tactical nous and calm leadership of Spanish manager Kibu Vicuña. With back-to-back title pursuits — first I-League 3 and now potentially I-League 2 — the coach has instilled belief, discipline, and flair in equal measure.
The team has not only dominated the standings but done so with a brand of football that combines possession-based play with clinical finishing — an approach that has won them admirers across the nation.
Though promotion is already assured, the squad remains grounded. Their next target is clear: secure at least a draw against Chanmari FC and lift the I-League 2 trophy.
