Real Kashmir FC Dominates Gokulam Kerala FC with 3-0 Win in Indian Football League
Real Kashmir FC Triumphs Over Gokulam Kerala FC
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], April 30: In a crucial relegation stage match of the Indian Football League 2025-26, Real Kashmir FC achieved a convincing 3-0 victory against a 10-man Gokulam Kerala FC at the Deccan Arena on Thursday.
The Snow Leopards opened the scoring in the 26th minute with an own goal from Vitor Barata. They extended their lead shortly after halftime, with Shedrack Charles finding the net in the 49th minute, followed by a third goal from Mohammad Inam just three minutes later, ensuring a comfortable win. Gokulam Kerala faced a setback in the first half when Bouba Aminou received a red card for a second yellow offense.
With this win, Real Kashmir climbed to 11 points, marking their third consecutive victory and securing the second position in the relegation stage standings. In contrast, Gokulam Kerala remained near the bottom with eight points, just above the relegation zone.
Gokulam Kerala started the match energetically, creating an opportunity in the second minute when Rahul Raju's left-footed volley went wide after Bouba Aminou controlled the ball from a set-piece. Shortly after, Habib Fofana made a vital clearance to deny a potential goal from Moses Lalrinzuala.
As the match progressed, Real Kashmir began to assert themselves, with Shedrack Charles making a notable solo run that was saved by goalkeeper Shibinraj Kunniyil. The goalkeeper was again tested by a long-range shot from Marius Obekop, which he managed to stop.
Real Kashmir's persistence paid off in the 26th minute when they took the lead through an own goal. Marius Obekop's corner was misplayed by Vitor Barata, resulting in an unfortunate goal for Gokulam Kerala.
Just before the drinks break, Gokulam Kerala was reduced to ten men as Bouba Aminou received a second yellow card for a foul on Oinam Sanatomba Singh, having already been booked earlier in the match.
Despite being a man down, Gokulam Kerala continued to push forward, with their best chance coming late in the first half. N. Shigil's long-range shot was saved, and Thabiso Brown's follow-up attempt was easily caught by Furkan Ahmad Dar, leaving Real Kashmir with a narrow lead at halftime.
Real Kashmir doubled their advantage just four minutes into the second half, capitalizing on another set-piece. After a corner was cleared, Mohammad Inam sent the ball back toward the goal, where it struck Shedrack and rebounded to him for an easy tap-in.
The third goal came from a mistake by goalkeeper Shibinraj, who misjudged a throw to a teammate, allowing Mohammad Inam to intercept and chip the ball into an empty net from nearly 35 yards out.
After securing their third goal, Real Kashmir controlled the game, slowing the pace and maintaining possession. Gokulam Kerala managed a few attempts in the final quarter, but their lack of numbers was evident as they struggled to challenge the Real Kashmir defense.
Ultimately, the Snow Leopards maintained their three-goal lead, celebrating their third consecutive league victory.