Manjeri (Kerala), March 20 (NationPress) An impressive performance saw Gokulam Kerala FC clinch their inaugural win of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 with a 2-0 triumph over Dempo SC at the Payyanad Stadium on Friday. A first-half goal from Moses Lalrinzuala followed by a late penalty by Mirjalol Kasimov ensured the victory.

This win propelled Gokulam Kerala to fifth place in the rankings, accumulating five points from four matches, while Dempo SC is left at the bottom with two points from the same number of games. Shibinraj Kunniyil earned the title of Player of the Match.

Head coach Dimitris Dimitriou opted for four changes in the Gokulam Kerala lineup, introducing Nidhin Krishna in central defense, Mirjalol Kasimov for N. Shigil, and forwards Rahul Raju and Moses Lalrinzuala replacing Nili Pedromo and John Kennedy.

On the flip side, Dempo's head coach Samir Naik made four substitutions as well, bringing in Jose Luis Moreno for Mohamed Ali, midfielders Amay Morajkar and Knerkitalang Buam for Ariston Costa and Seigoumang Doungel, along with Arnold Oliveira taking the place of Richmond Owusu on the wing.

The match began as a midfield struggle until just before the 20-minute mark when Gokulam Kerala took the lead with a goal from Moses Lalrinzuala. The winger skillfully maneuvered past two defenders before unleashing a powerful left-footed shot that flew past Ashish Sibi in goal.

Gokulam Kerala dominated possession and continued to press for another goal. Ashish Sibi made a remarkable save to deny Trijoy Das, and shortly after, Thabiso Brown saw his header hit the crossbar.

Dempo SC, relying on their foreign stars Sebastian Gutierrez and Marcus Joseph, struggled to break through the steadfast Gokulam Kerala defense. Their best first-half chance came when Gutierrez assisted Marcus, but Shibinraj Kunniyil was up to the task, ensuring Gokulam went into halftime ahead.

Within 10 minutes of the second half, Gokulam earned a penalty when Thabiso Brown was fouled in the box. Ashish redeemed himself by saving Brown's spot-kick, maintaining the one-goal deficit.

Despite the setback, Gokulam continued to control the game. The introduction of Laximan Rane provided some attacking momentum for Dempo, yet they struggled to convert their chances.

Ashish Sibi continued to thwart Gokulam's efforts, making another crucial save against Brown. A swift counter-attack saw Kingslee Fernandes set up Trijoy, but Ashish's quick reflexes kept the scoreline intact.

The match was sealed seven minutes before time when Kasimov converted a penalty after being fouled by Aubin Kouakou. His powerful strike found the top-right corner, leaving Ashish with no chance.

Dempo made a late attempt to rally during the seven minutes of added time, with Aubin Kouakou pushing forward as a makeshift striker but unable to find the back of the net. Shibinraj made a stunning save to deny Laxmikant Rane as well.

Ultimately, Gokulam Kerala's two-goal margin was sufficient to secure the victory and mark their first win of the season.