PANAJI
The All India Football Federation’s Appeals Committee has rescheduled its key meeting to Saturday, April 12, to rule on a disputed I-League match that will determine the 2024–25 champions — Churchill Brothers or Inter Kashi.
Originally set for April 28, the meeting was moved up under mounting pressure to resolve the title deadlock that has left Indian football in suspense since the season ended April 6. Churchill Brothers finished the campaign atop the table with 40 points, just one ahead of second-placed Inter Kashi.
At the centre of the dispute is a January 13 match in which Inter Kashi lost 2-0 to Namdhari FC. Inter Kashi claims Namdhari fielded an ineligible player, Brazilian forward Cledson Carvalho da Silva, who they argue should have been suspended after receiving four yellow cards.
The AIFF Disciplinary Committee initially ruled in favour of Inter Kashi, awarding them a 3-0 win. However, Namdhari successfully appealed the decision, and the original result was reinstated. That reversal meant Churchill Brothers finished atop the standings -- but as provisional leaders.
The Appeals Committee will review disciplinary records and match protocols to determine whether Da Silva’s participation was valid. The outcome will not only decide the I-League title but also determine which club secures a berth in the 2025 Super Cup, set to begin April 20 in Bhubaneswar, and a place in the AFC Champions League Two Preliminary Round.
Churchill Brothers are aiming for their third I-League title, while Inter Kashi, in just their second season, are chasing a maiden crown. A decision is expected on Saturday, potentially ending one of Indian football’s most contentious title races.
