I-League 2024-25: Castaneda’s hat-trick sparks stunning comeback for Sreenidi Deccan

The Deccan Warriors overcame a daunting 3-0 deficit, with Castaneda leading the charge

Hyderabad: Forward David Castaneda’s hat-trick inspired Sreenidi Deccan FC to a remarkable comeback, securing a thrilling 4-3 victory over Aizawl FC in Round 7 of the I-League 2024-25 at the RG Stadium in Aizawl on Thursday.

The Deccan Warriors overcame a daunting 3-0 deficit, with Castaneda leading the charge. Head Coach Rui Amorim made two changes to the starting eleven, bringing in Lalchungnunga and Lalnuntluanga in place of Brandon and Ajay Chhetri, respectively.

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The Deccan Warriors started the game positively and created several chances but were unable to convert. In the 21st minute, Castaneda earned a penalty after being brought down inside the box. However, the Colombian forward missed his spot-kick, failing to give his team the lead.

The hosts then seized control of the game, opening the scoring in the 37th minute through Lalbiakdika and doubling their lead in the 43rd minute with a strike from Zothanpuia.

At the start of the second half, Coach Amorim made three substitutions, introducing Abhishek, Brandon, and Angel in place of Emboklang, Rosenberg, and Roly Bonevacia. Despite the changes, Aizawl FC extended their lead in the 58th minute through Lalrinzuala, leaving the Deccan Warriors with a mountain to climb.

In response, Lalbiakliana and Willian Oliveira replaced Lalchungnunga and Eli Sabia as Sreenidi pushed for a comeback. Castaneda began his scoring spree in the 69th minute, quickly adding another in the 75th minute to bring his team back into the game.

The visitors continued to press, and substitute Willian Oliveira found the equalizer in the 83rd minute. With the regulation time over, the referee added eight minutes of injury time. In the dying moments, Castaneda completed his hat-trick with a decisive header, sealing a dramatic 4-3 victory for Sreenidi Deccan FC. Sreenidi Deccan FC will now travel to Srinagar to face Real Kashmir FC on 14 January.