Xtra Time Web Desk: Dempo Sporting Club, a club that once played alongside top teams in the I-League, wants to make a comeback in the I-League. Having won the tournament five times, Dempo now seeks to be included in the main I-League competition in the upcoming year. To achieve this, they have applied to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to consider their inclusion.
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Recently, Dempo emerged as the champions of the Goa Pro League, which has kept their hopes alive for playing in the I-League’s third division. However, their ultimate desire is to play directly in the top tier, the first division of the I-League.
In a letter addressed to the All India Football Federation, Shrinivas Dempo wrote, “For us, playing in the third division of the I-League is a matter of disrespect considering our football history. We are requesting to be given a direct opportunity to play in the first division of the I-League. If not, at least let us play in the second division.”
Dempo had previously withdrawn their name from the I-League in 2016, protesting against the league’s lack of recognition as the country’s premier league. Last year, when they played in the second division of the I-League, they were unable to secure qualification for the main competition. However, this time, Dempo is eager to play directly in the main competition and is determined to make a strong comeback.