How Did Gokulam Kerala Triumph Over Mohammedan Sporting?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bambolim, Nov 5 (NationPress) Gokulam Kerala FC achieved a decisive 3-0 victory against Mohammedan Sporting Club in their final Group C match of the AIFF Super Cup at the GMC Stadium on Wednesday.
The scoring was opened by Albert Torras in the 28th minute, which set a positive tone for the Malabarians. Samuel Lyndoh extended the lead shortly after the second half began. Near the end of the match, substitute Juan Carlos Rico scored the third goal, securing the victory and placing his team third in the group standings, while both teams concluded their campaigns. In the fourth minute, Gokulam's Spanish midfielder Alfred Planas tested Mohammedan goalkeeper Subhajit Bhattacharjee with a well-placed free-kick from distance, which was tipped away.
The Black and White Brigade attempted to respond with counterattacks. In the eighth minute, midfielder Maharabam Maxion had a shot from the edge of the box that went wide. The following minute, Ashley Koli struck a powerful free-kick that struck the crossbar.
The breakthrough came in the 28th minute when Shighil’s shot deflected off Yash Chickro and fell for Torras, who executed a stunning volley to take the lead. This goal boosted Gokulam's confidence, prompting them to launch numerous attacks, while Mohammedan struggled to penetrate Gokulam's solid defense. The Malabarians pressured the opposition through Planas and Soyal Joshy, forcing Bhattacharjee into another save right before halftime.
After the break, Gokulam Kerala maintained their attacking momentum. In the 49th minute, Planas connected with Torras before firing a left-footed shot, which was deflected by Bhattacharjee. Following relentless pressure, Akshunna Tyagi raced down the left flank in the 56th minute, delivering a low cross for Samuel Lyngdoh to convert with a simple tap-in, doubling the lead.
In the 86th minute, Gokulam Kerala scored their third goal when Planas’ shot was initially saved by Bhattacharjee, allowing Juan Carlos Rico to capitalize on the rebound and score from close range. This secured a 3-0 victory for Gokulam Kerala, marking their first win in the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26.