Naoba Meitei's Last-Minute Goal Secures Victory for Rajasthan United FC
Rajasthan United FC Triumphs Over Gokulam Kerala FC
In a thrilling match at the Vidhyadhar Nagar Stadium in Jaipur, Naoba Meitei's stunning stoppage-time goal propelled Rajasthan United FC to a 1-0 victory against Gokulam Kerala FC in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 on Tuesday.
After more than 100 minutes of a scoreless game, Meitei broke the stalemate deep into injury time, earning three crucial points for the home team. This win elevated Rajasthan United to second place in the standings with 14 points, while Gokulam Kerala remained in seventh with eight points. Meitei's performance earned him the Man of the Match title, according to an IFL press release.
Tactical Adjustments and Early Exchanges
Rajasthan United's head coach Vikrant Sharma made a single change to his starting lineup, introducing Pranjal Bhumij in midfield. In contrast, Gokulam Kerala's coach Dimitris Dimitriou opted for two changes, including the return of goalkeeper Shibinraj Kunniyil. The visitors began the match with vigor, as Thabiso Nelson Brown tested Rajasthan's captain and goalkeeper Bhabindra Malla Thakuri early on. Gokulam maintained possession during the initial phases but struggled to create significant scoring opportunities.
Rajasthan's Pressure Builds Before Halftime
As the match progressed, Rajasthan United began to assert themselves. In the 21st minute, Amadou Soukouna set up Jonathan Fernandes, who unfortunately missed the target. Shortly after, Soukouna himself attempted a curling shot that was saved by Shibinraj, as the home side ramped up the pressure.
Just before halftime, Rajasthan came agonizingly close to scoring with a series of chances. Soukouna hit the crossbar, Thomyo L. Shimray's header was saved, and an acrobatic attempt by Fernandes was also thwarted by a vigilant Shibinraj, leaving the first half scoreless.
Second Half Action and Missed Opportunities
Gokulam nearly took the lead early in the second half, but Brown failed to connect with a dangerous cross inside the box. Rajasthan responded with Thomyo Shimray continuing to challenge the defense, yet both teams struggled to find the back of the net.
The match remained tightly contested, with opportunities for both sides. Gokulam's substitute Benjamin Thomas Kuku came close in the 73rd minute, but Malla made a vital save to keep the score level. Rajasthan also threatened through Isaac Nortey and substitute Naoba Meitei, but they could not capitalize on their chances.
Dramatic Finish as Meitei Scores the Winner
As the match seemed destined for a draw, Rajasthan finally clinched the victory in the 101st minute. Naoba Meitei skillfully cut in from the left and unleashed a right-footed shot towards the near post, catching the goalkeeper off guard and securing a dramatic win.
Despite Gokulam's attempts to push forward in the final moments, Rajasthan held their ground to claim a hard-fought victory in this intense match.