Srinagar, Nov 28: After defeating Rajasthan United FC in their inaugural match, Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) is set to take on Gokulam Kerala FC in an I-League match on Friday, November 29, at the TRC Ground in Srinagar.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 2 p.m., with all necessary arrangements in place. It will be broadcast live on several channels.
Addressing a pre-match conference, RKFC head coach Ishfaq Ahmad said Gokulam Kerala FC has always been a strong team and former I-League champions.
“It will be a tough game, but I hope our boys will play excellent football and deliver positive results,” Ishfaq said.
He expressed pride in Kashmiri players representing RKFC and competing against top football clubs in the country.
While acknowledging improvements in sports infrastructure, Ishfaq emphasized that much more needs to be done. “Compared to the rest of the country, we are still lagging in sports facilities like football,” he said.
Encouraged by the packed crowd at the TRC Ground during the previous game, Ishfaq urged fans to show up in large numbers again. “We appeal to everyone to come, watch Friday’s match, and support Kashmir’s team,” he added.
RKFC player Lalramdinsanga Ralte also addressed the media, expressing his excitement about being part of the team.
Meanwhile, Gokulam Kerala FC head coach Antonio Rueda acknowledged RKFC’s home advantage but expressed confidence in his team’s preparations. “Playing against RKFC will be tough, but we hope to secure a win on their home ground,” he said.
RKFC co-founder Arshad Shawl reiterated his commitment to promoting football in Kashmir. “Like in the previous game, I hope people turn up in large numbers to support their home team,” he said.
RKFC remains the only club from Jammu & Kashmir participating in the I-League.
JKFA members meet RKFC owner Arshad Shawl
Members of the Jammu and Kashmir Football Association (JKFA) met with Real Kashmir FC (RKFC) owner and director Arshad Shawl on Thursday and extended their support to the club.
The JKFA members stated that Real Kashmir FC is the pride of J&K, being the only club from the Union Territory participating in the I-League.
“RKFC has always promoted football in the region. We also wish you the best of luck in running the club. We hope RKFC, an esteemed club of J&K, will continue to collaborate with JKFA and promore football in the valley,” the delegation told Shawl.
Shawl expressed his sincere gratitude to JKFA members for their support.
“JKFA and RKFC can work together to promote sports in J&K,” he added.
RKFC is the only club from J&K participating in the prestigious I League and the team is scheduled to play against Gokulam Kerala FC on Friday at TRC Ground Srinagar.
