I-League 2024-25: Oyarzun's Two Goals Propel Rajasthan United Past Aizawl FC
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Aizawl, Dec 14 (NationPress) Spanish talent Alain Oyarzun showcased his skills as Rajasthan United FC mounted a last-minute comeback to secure a vital 2-1 victory against a 10-man Aizawl FC during the I-League 2024-25 at the RG Stadium on Saturday.
Oyarzun executed both penalties in the 87th and 90+2 minutes, sealing the win for the visitors. Aizawl FC initially took the lead in the 11th minute due to an own goal by Abhash Thapa. The hosts were reduced to 10 players during injury time when Lalchhawnkima received a red card.
Coming off an 8-0 defeat to Shillong Lajong and sitting at the bottom of the league table, this victory propelled Rajasthan United to the sixth position, while Aizawl FC remained in eighth.
Aizawl FC controlled the match from the beginning, energized by their home crowd, maintaining possession and dictating the game's pace. Their midfielders and wingers displayed impressive skills in tight situations, executing quick passes and sharp runs.
The home side struck first in the 11th minute when Augustine Lalrochana made a powerful run down the right flank, sending a pass across the goal that took a fortunate deflection off Abhash Thapa into the net.
Despite their early advantage, Aizawl struggled to penetrate the solid defense of Rajasthan United, which regained its composure after the initial setback. Aizawl's attempts to score during the match lacked precision, failing to significantly threaten the opposing goalkeeper.
The match's momentum shifted dramatically in the 87th minute when referee Kishore Gangaram Choudhari awarded a penalty to Rajasthan United. Captain Oyarzun stepped up confidently, sending Aizawl keeper Joel B. Lalramchhana the wrong way and equalizing the match at 1-1.
As both teams pressed for a winner, the pivotal moment arrived in stoppage time. Ronny Rodriguez Pena's aggressive advance into the penalty area was halted by Lalchhawnkima's challenge, which the referee ruled as a foul, leading to a second yellow card and reducing Aizawl to 10 men.
With poise under pressure, Oyarzun converted a second penalty, placing the ball into the bottom right corner. Although Lalramchhana guessed the right direction, the precision of the shot enabled Rajasthan United to complete a thrilling comeback victory.
