Gokulam Kerala FC Secures IFL Status with Last-Minute Victory Over Namdhari FC

In a nail-biting finish, Gokulam Kerala FC managed to secure their status in the Indian Football League by defeating Namdhari FC 1-0, thanks to a last-minute goal from Trijoy Savio Dias. The match, held at the Deccan Arena, saw Gokulam fighting for survival, while Namdhari faced relegation. Despite a strong defensive performance from Namdhari, a late lapse allowed Gokulam to capitalize and avoid dropping out of the league. This victory marks a significant moment for Gokulam, who finished third in the Relegation Phase table.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 13, 2026, 00:20 IST

Gokulam's Dramatic Win

In a thrilling conclusion to their Indian Football League (IFL) campaign, Gokulam Kerala FC clinched a vital 1-0 victory against Namdhari FC, ensuring their survival in the league. The decisive goal came from Trijoy Savio Dias in the dying moments of the match during the Relegation Phase clash held at the Deccan Arena in Hyderabad on Tuesday.

Knowing that only a win would secure their place in the league, Gokulam displayed remarkable composure throughout a tense match. Trijoy's goal, scored in the eighth minute of stoppage time, ignited celebrations among the Gokulam players and staff while leaving Namdhari devastated.

Namdhari had been defensively solid for most of the match but faltered at a critical moment. A long ball from Vitor Hugo Encarnacão Freitas (Barata) into the penalty area saw goalkeeper Niraj Kumar attempt to clear but fail to connect properly. Centre-back Bouba Aminou, playing as an impromptu striker, headed the ball, allowing Trijoy to react quickly and score, thus saving Gokulam from relegation.

Despite Namdhari's efforts to secure at least a draw for safety, Gokulam's relentless pursuit of victory ultimately paid off. Gokulam finished the Relegation Phase with 12 points, placing third, while Namdhari ended at the bottom with 10 points.

Match Overview

The match kicked off with Namdhari quickly winning a free-kick within the first 15 seconds, but Gokulam's Armand Bazie handled the situation well. Gokulam responded with an aggressive attack, as Moses Lalrinzuala made a run into the penalty area.

The first significant chance came in the fifth minute when Namdhari earned a free-kick. Rohit directed a powerful header towards goal, but Gokulam's goalkeeper, Shibinraj Kunniyil, made a crucial diving save.

As the match progressed, both teams displayed attacking intent. Namdhari, needing only a draw, continued to push forward, while Gokulam began to assert themselves, particularly through Thabiso Nelson Brown's influence. Brown's dangerous crosses in the 10th and 13th minutes were met with solid defensive responses from Namdhari.

The first half concluded with both teams searching for an opener, but neither could capitalize on their chances.

Second Half Tensions

The second half started slowly, with both teams struggling to create clear opportunities. Namdhari had a golden chance in the 56th minute when Rohit failed to convert a close-range header from an excellent cross by Bhupinder Singh.

Namdhari continued to threaten from set pieces, with Lamine Moro's header saved by Shibinraj. As the match approached the 70-minute mark, Namdhari adopted a more defensive strategy, content to hold onto their draw.

Gokulam finally created a significant chance in the 82nd minute, but Brown's header went off target, a miss that could have proven costly.

As the match neared its conclusion, Gokulam intensified their attacks, and after eight minutes of added time, they found the breakthrough that ensured their place in the league.