Baghpat FC Clinch I-League 3 Title in Dominant Fashion
Baghpat FC has been crowned the champions of the I-League 3 2025-26 season, securing their place in I-League 2 for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign. The team had already clinched the title with a match to spare, demonstrating their superior performance throughout the season. In their final playoff match, Baghpat FC experienced a narrow 0-1 defeat against Sunrise Club Orissa, with Faslurahman Methukayil scoring the decisive goal in the 54th minute. Despite the loss, Baghpat FC finished at the top of the standings with a total of 10 points, showcasing their consistent form. The champions also boasted the league's most potent offense, scoring 23 goals during the competition.
FC Raengdai Secures Second Promotion Spot
FC Raengdai emerged as the runners-up, earning the second and final promotion spot to I-League 2. The Manipur-based club also finished with 10 points, ultimately placing second due to a head-to-head record disadvantage against Baghpat FC. In their playoff fixture, FC Raengdai secured a crucial 1-0 victory over KLASA FC, with Kamei Langanglung Kabui netting the winning goal in the second half. This victory was pivotal in their quest for promotion, highlighting their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Playoff Round Recap and Relegation
The I-League 3 playoffs, held in Imphal, saw several teams vying for the coveted promotion spots. Sunrise Club Orissa finished third in the final standings, remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign but falling short of promotion. In another playoff match, TRAU FC and Chhaygaon FC played out a thrilling 2-2 draw. TRAU FC had taken a two-goal lead through Lairellakpam Dhananjoy Singh and Dhanachandra Mutum, but Chhaygaon FC fought back with second-half goals from Tridip Marak and Midul Doley to salvage a point. As a result of Baghpat FC and FC Raengdai's promotions, NEROCA FC and SAT Tirur will be relegated from I-League 2 for the next season. The I-League 3 playoffs featured teams that qualified through their respective group stages, including Sunrise Club Orissa topping Group A, TRAU FC leading Group B, KLASA FC winning Group C, and Baghpat FC dominating Group D.