Aizawl, March 23 – Local rivals Aizawl FC and Chanmari FC will clash in a highly anticipated Aizawl derby in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl on Tuesday.
Aizawl FC will be eager to bounce back from a 0-2 defeat against the strong Diamond Harbour FC. Under head coach R. Lalruatfela, the People's Club defended resolutely in the first half of their previous match. However, they were eventually undone by a defensive lapse in the second half, which led to the opening goal.
Reflecting on this setback, Lalruatfela admitted, "In that game, what I reflect on is the lack of experience of my defender. Not only because of the mistakes of the players, but also because of the decisions I made. So, such mistakes cannot happen, especially at this level."
He added, "The game cannot be predicted. Sometimes you have the ball, sometimes you don't. And when we face opponents, the team itself should manage the game. Experience is very important."
Currently sitting in fifth place with five points, Aizawl has experienced a frustrating recent slide. "At the beginning of the season, we were doing really well. But in the last matches, from six points, we got only one point. That is not a good thing, and I am not happy with the result," Lalruatfela noted.
Seeking an immediate turnaround, the head coach is prioritizing substance over style: "For me, when we are in senior football, the result is the most important thing. Regardless of how we play, the style of play, at the end of the day, winning is the most important thing."
Player Eric Rempuia echoed this determination, highlighting the squad's solid preparation and growing unity. "About our chemistry, we are much better day by day, both on and off the field," Rempuia stated. "From the coaching staff to all the players, we are preparing more than 100 per cent, both on and off the field, to win these three points so that we can progress in the table and reach the top."
Standing in their way are newly-promoted Chanmari FC, who share the same home ground and are also seeking redemption after suffering a heartbreaking 1-2 defeat to Shillong Lajong FC. Under the guidance of head coach Victor Lalbiakmawia, Chanmari showcased their devastating attacking.
Both sides have started the campaign impressively, but are now desperate to return to winning ways. As this marks the first-ever top-flight I-League meeting between the former champions and the ambitious debutants, the clean slate only adds to the suspense and unpredictability surrounding the matchup.
With local pride and vital points on offer, Tuesday's evening clash promises intense action. Currently sitting neck-and-neck with five points each, both teams know exactly what a victory would mean for their campaign. However, Lalruatfela was quick to downplay the emotional hype surrounding the match. "Right now, I don't think about the derby at all," he asserted. "I'm looking only for the three points. This is a very good opportunity to get the three points."
A win for either of the teams would yield a crucial three points, sending them temporarily to second in the standings. As Aizawl looks to tighten their defence and Chanmari hopes to capitalise on their dynamic attacking flair, the stage is perfectly set for a highly competitive Aizawl Derby.