The 2024-25 I-League season concluded in dramatic fashion, but the final chapter is yet to be written. Churchill Brothers currently sit as provisional champions, but their place at the top—and potential promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL)—still hinges on a crucial decision from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
Heading into the final matchday, the title race was wide open, with four clubs—Churchill Brothers, Inter Kashi, Real Kashmir, and Gokulam Kerala—all in contention for the crown and the coveted promotion to the ISL.
Here’s how the final day unfolded:
- Real Kashmir 1-1 Churchill Brothers
- Inter Kashi 3-1 Rajasthan FC
- Gokulam Kerala 3-4 Dempo SC
Churchill Brothers, leading the table before kickoff, needed a win against Real Kashmir to secure the title outright. However, Real Kashmir—who remained unbeaten at home this season—held them to a 1-1 draw.
Despite the dropped points, Churchill still ended the season on top with 40 points from 22 matches, as Gokulam Kerala suffered a heartbreaking 94th-minute defeat to Dempo SC, falling out of contention.
But the race isn’t officially over.
Inter Kashi finished with 39 points from just 21 matches. Their match against Namdhari FC remains under review after Namdhari allegedly fielded an ineligible player. If the AIFF Appeal Committee rules in Inter Kashi’s favour and awards them three points, their tally would rise to 42—making them champions instead of Churchill.
As it stands, Churchill Brothers are the provisional champions of the I-League and will hope the final AIFF decision confirms their promotion to the ISL. Inter Kashi, on the other hand, await the ruling that could change everything.