Ishfaq Ahmed is happy with Real Kashmir’s progress in the ongoing I-league. The Kashmir team registered a 4-0 victory against Neroca FC at Kalyani Stadium on Thursday. Mohammad Rehbar, Gnohere Krizo, Laldinpuia, and Mohammad Maksod scored for the winners.

Ishfaq, the former India international and youth national coach, currently guiding Real Kashmir revealed, “We had only seven to eight training sessions before the start of the League. The ground where we are playing home matches was not initially allowed to play by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).”

He added, "Naturally, we could get only a week for preparation and despite such a short preparation, I am happy with the footballers' performance so far. We have won three matches, and earned nine points in five outings."

Ishfaq however stressed the club's key motive to bring out potential footballers from Kashmir. He explained, “You are already aware of three to four Kashmiri footballers who have been representing the country's leading teams in the ISL. The key motive of Real Kashmir is to produce more potential Kashmiri footballers in the near future." 

Ishfaq asserted, "That is one major reason I have joined the club as its coach. We already have a youth development program with under-13, 15, and 17 boys. We are in the process of making the coaching program stronger."