Dempo vs Aizawl Predictions

Dempo, projected to be in the relegation zone with around 21 points from 19 matches, come off a projected 1-1 draw against Shillong Lajong (March 17, 2025), desperate to secure vital points to climb out of the drop zone. Aizawl, also teetering near relegation with approximately 20 points from 19 matches, arrive after a projected 2-1 loss to Churchill Brothers (March 17, 2025), equally in need of a win to avoid the abyss. This preview analyzes team form, key players, head-to-head stats, and betting tips to predict the outcome of this do-or-die clash.

Team Form & Recent Performances

Dempo

• 2024/25 Record (Projected): 6W, 3D, 10L in I-League (21 points, 11th); 3W, 2D, 3L in friendlies

• Latest Results: 1-1 draw vs. Shillong Lajong (I-League, March 17, 2025); 2-0 loss vs. Real Kashmir (I-League, March 10, 2025)

• Home Form: 4W, 2D, 4L (14 goals scored, 14 conceded in I-League)
  Dempo have struggled this season, projected to win just one of their last five league matches as of March 23, 2025, under Aniston Fernandes. They average 1.40 goals scored and 1.40 conceded per game at home, reflecting a modest attack led by Pratesh Shirodkar but a defense that leaks goals. Their recent draw against Shillong Lajong halts a three-game losing streak (D1, L4), offering a glimmer of hope against an equally desperate Aizawl side.

Aizawl

• 2024/25 Record (Projected): 5W, 5D, 9L in I-League (20 points, 12th); 3W, 2D, 3L in friendlies

• Latest Results: 2-1 loss vs. Churchill Brothers (I-League, March 17, 2025); 1-0 loss vs. Delhi FC (I-League, March 10, 2025)

• Away Form: 2W, 2D, 5L (11 goals scored, 15 conceded in I-League)
  Aizawl have been in freefall, projected to lose four of their last five matches under Bobi Stojkoski as of March 23, 2025. They average 1.22 goals scored and 1.67 conceded per game away, with Tharpuia providing some attacking threat but a shaky defense hampering their efforts. Their recent loss to Churchill Brothers extends a six-game winless streak (L5, D1), making this trip to Margao a daunting task.

Head-to-Head Stats & Historical Context

• Overall Record: Dempo 1W, Aizawl 0W, 0D (1 meeting since 2024)

• Recent Meeting: December 14, 2024: Aizawl 0-2 Dempo (I-League)

• Key Trend: Over 2.5 goals in their only prior H2H; Dempo unbeaten against Aizawl
  With just one prior meeting, Dempo secured a 2-0 victory in December 2024 at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl, with goals from Shirodkar and Arjun Jayaraj. The match averaged 2.00 goals, and Dempo’s dominance in that encounter suggests a psychological edge, though Aizawl’s desperation could make this rematch tighter. Historically, Dempo have not lost at home to Aizawl, albeit based on limited data.

Key Players to Watch

Dempo

• Pratesh Shirodkar (MID): 5 goals, 3 assists in I-League; key playmaker and top scorer.

• Arjun Jayaraj (FWD): 4 goals, 2 assists in I-League; pacey striker with finishing touch.

• Bhaskar Roy (GK): 4 clean sheets in I-League; vital for defensive stability.

Aizawl

• Tharpuia (FWD): 6 goals, 2 assists in I-League; primary attacking threat.

• Lalchhawnkima (MID): 3 goals, 3 assists in I-League; creative force in midfield.

• Nora Fernandes (GK): 4 clean sheets in I-League; key to any upset bid.

Tactical Insights & Match Dynamics

Dempo’s 4-3-3 (1.32 goals per game in I-League) relies on Shirodkar’s creativity and Jayaraj’s finishing, likely holding 51% possession at home to exploit Aizawl’s defense (1.47 goals conceded per game) with quick transitions and width. No major injuries are projected, with Kapil Hoble steadying the backline. Aizawl’s 4-2-3-1 (1.26 goals per game in I-League) hinges on Tharpuia’s poaching and Lalchhawnkima’s playmaking, aiming for 49% possession to counter, with David Lalhlansanga doubtful (fatigue). The 8,000 fans at Fatorda Stadium will rally Dempo, suggesting a match where home advantage could tip the scales in a tight relegation scrap, though Aizawl’s desperation might keep it close.

Prediction: Dempo vs Aizawl

Our Prediction: Asian Handicap - Dempo to Win +0

Total Goal - Over 2.5