Minerva Academy FC Clinches AIFF Sub-Junior League Title with 4-1 Victory
Minerva Academy FC Triumphs in AIFF Sub-Junior League Final
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India] - On May 13, Minerva Academy FC secured the championship title of the AIFF Sub-Junior League 2025-26 by defeating Classic Football Academy with a decisive score of 4-1 at Scamper Park, FC Madras in Mahabalipuram.
The goals for Minerva Academy FC were scored by Khutheipham Muktar Rehman (8'), Ngayaiza Zingyo (27'), Rimoson Singh Huidrom (33'), and Khumanthem Lanchenba Meitei (90'). Classic Football Academy's consolation goal came from Ngangom Suman Singh in the 70th minute, as reported in a release.
Minerva Academy FC started strong, with Muktar Rehman opening the scoring in the eighth minute with an impressive 'olimpico'—a corner kick that curled directly into the net, catching the goalkeeper off guard.
Continuing their offensive, Minerva doubled their lead in the 27th minute when Zingyo executed a brilliant tackle to dispossess Classic's Kangjam Rickson Singh, followed by a powerful right-footed shot that found the back of the net.
In the 33rd minute, the Punjab team struck again as captain Huidrom unleashed a long-range left-footed shot that hit the post before crossing the line, bringing the score to 3-0.
By halftime, Minerva Academy FC had dominated the match, recording seven shots on target and controlling 60% of possession.
The second half began slowly, with both teams vying for midfield control, resulting in a scrappy play.
Classic Football Academy found a glimmer of hope in the 70th minute when captain Suman Singh scored with a looping header following a corner rebound.
Just a minute later, they nearly scored again, but Minerva's goalkeeper Tonmoy made a spectacular save to preserve the lead.
Minerva Academy FC regained their rhythm and created additional scoring opportunities. In the 90th minute, a reckless tackle by Classic's Suman Singh on Minerva's Thangmingun Kipgen resulted in a penalty. Meitei confidently converted the penalty, sealing the match at 4-1.
This victory allowed Minerva Academy FC to redeem themselves after their loss in the previous year's final, showcasing a dominant performance throughout the tournament.