Minerva Academy FC Clinches AIFF Sub-Junior League Title with 4-1 Victory
Championship Victory for Minerva Academy FC
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], May 13: Minerva Academy FC emerged as the champions of the AIFF Sub-Junior League 2025-26, securing a decisive 4-1 victory over Classic Football Academy at Scamper Park, FC Madras in Mahabalipuram on Wednesday.
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.
First Half Dominance
Minerva Academy FC started strong, breaking the deadlock in the eighth minute with a remarkable 'olimpico' from Khutheipham Muktar Rehman, who curled a corner directly into the net, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.
Continuing their offensive, Minerva doubled their lead in the 27th minute when Ngayaiza Zingyo executed a brilliant tackle to dispossess a Classic Football Academy midfielder, followed by a powerful right-footed strike that found the back of the net.
The third goal came in the 33rd minute from captain Rimoson Singh Huidrom, whose long-range left-footed shot hit the post before crossing the line. By halftime, Minerva had taken seven shots on target and controlled 60% of the possession.
Second Half Developments
The second half began with both teams struggling to control the midfield, resulting in a slower pace of play.
Classic Football Academy found a glimmer of hope in the 70th minute when captain Ngangom Suman Singh scored with a looping header following a corner rebound. They nearly scored again immediately after, but Minerva's goalkeeper Tonmoy made a crucial save to maintain the lead.
Sealing the Championship
Minerva Academy FC regained control and created additional chances to secure their victory. In the 90th minute, a reckless tackle by Classic Football Academy's Ngangom Suman Singh on Minerva's substitute midfielder Thangmingun Kipgen resulted in a penalty.
Khumanthem Lanchenba Meitei confidently converted the penalty, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and finalizing the score 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.