Diamond Harbour FC Triumphs Over Aizawl FC with Moyano's Double
Match Overview
In a decisive encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl on Friday, Antonio Moyano's exceptional performance, featuring two goals in the second half, led Diamond Harbour FC to a convincing 2-0 victory against Aizawl FC during Match 19 of the Star Cement Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26, as reported by the All India Football Federation.
League Standings
With this win, Diamond Harbour ascended to the top of the league table, securing nine points from three consecutive victories. Meanwhile, Aizawl FC slipped to seventh place with five points. Moyano's outstanding display earned him the Player of the Match accolade.
Team Lineups and Adjustments
Both teams adopted a 4-3-3 formation. Aizawl FC's head coach R Lalruatfela made two changes to his starting lineup, introducing Laldanmawia and Eric Remruatpuia Chhangte in place of Laldawngzuala and Vanlalawmpuia. Similarly, Diamond Harbour's coach Kibu Vicuna also opted for two substitutions, giving starting roles to Sunday Kolawole Afolabi and R Ramdinthara, replacing Jobby Justin and Hugo Diaz Rodriguez.
First Half Analysis
From the outset, Diamond Harbour dominated possession, holding the ball 74% of the time. Aizawl, initially on the back foot, gradually found their rhythm after about 20 minutes, creating a few half-chances as they improved their possession towards the end of the first half. Despite Diamond Harbour's superiority, Aizawl's defense held firm, limiting clear opportunities and keeping Luka Majcen, a significant threat, quiet.
Second Half Highlights
The breakthrough came just after the second half began, in the 47th minute. Following a poor clearance from Aizawl's Rohmingthanga, Moyano seized the opportunity, finishing with precision past goalkeeper Vanlalhriatpuia. As Aizawl pressed for an equalizer, they struggled to create significant chances.
In the 77th minute, Diamond Harbour extended their lead. Bryce Miranda skillfully maneuvered past two defenders, setting up Moyano for an easy finish into an open net, marking his second goal of the match.
Following this goal, Diamond Harbour maintained control of the game, even as 11 minutes of added time were announced due to a brief stoppage caused by mist and poor lighting. Aizawl managed to earn a few late corners but posed no real threat to Diamond Harbour's defense, who secured a vital away win.
