Gokulam Kerala FC defeated Nagaland United SC 2-1 in the Indian Football League 2026-27 after Victor Da Silva scored a dramatic stoppage-time penalty in Dimapur. Crislan Henrique opened the scoring as the Malabarians secured their third consecutive victory.
Gokulam Kerala FC produced a dramatic late comeback in the closing moments of their Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 encounter, defeating Nagaland United SC 2-1 at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium in Dimapur on Saturday. Victor Matheus Da Silva Matos emerged as the match-winner after converting a penalty in the ninth minute of stoppage time.
The thrilling victory extended Gokulam Kerala’s winning streak to three consecutive matches, taking their tally to nine points and moving them to the top of the league standings. Meanwhile, Nagaland United remained in sixth position with three points from two matches.
Brazilian forward Crislan Henrique Da Silva De Sousa opened the scoring for the visitors in the 18th minute. Receiving the ball unmarked inside the penalty area, Crislan unleashed a powerful left-footed strike that found the back of the net, giving Gokulam Kerala an unexpected advantage despite Nagaland United’s early dominance.
The hosts controlled much of the midfield battle and enjoyed nearly 70 per cent possession during the opening half. However, they struggled to convert their territorial advantage into goals as Gokulam’s defensive unit remained organised under sustained pressure.
Gokulam goalkeeper Shibin Raj played a crucial role in preserving his team’s lead, producing several impressive saves to deny Nagaland United. His performances ensured that the visitors entered half-time with a 1-0 advantage.
Following the restart, both teams gradually increased their attacking intensity. Gokulam Kerala created opportunities through counterattacks, with forward Jobby Justin getting two promising one-on-one chances. However, he failed to find the target on both occasions.
Nagaland United continued searching for an equaliser, making substitutions and increasing pressure in the attacking third. Despite creating several opportunities, the home side repeatedly found Shibin Raj in their way.
As the match approached its conclusion, Gokulam Kerala appeared close to securing a narrow victory. The visitors introduced defensive reinforcements, including Dennis Agyare Antwi and Wungngayam Muirang, to protect their advantage.
However, late drama changed the complexion of the contest. Gokulam defender Sarthak Goloui conceded a penalty in the 95th minute, giving Nagaland United a golden opportunity to rescue a point.
Zomuansanga stepped up and converted the spot-kick in the 90+6th minute, sending the home supporters into celebration as the score became 1-1.
Just when it appeared that both teams would share the points, Gokulam Kerala earned a penalty of their own in the dying moments. Victor Da Silva took responsibility and calmly converted from the spot in the 90+9th minute, scoring with virtually the final kick of the match to seal a memorable 2-1 victory.
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Crislan Henrique was named Man of the Match for his impressive performance and opening goal.
Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Nagaland United were left disappointed by their inability to finish opportunities. In contrast, Gokulam Kerala demonstrated defensive resilience and clinical finishing to collect all three points.
The result strengthens Gokulam Kerala’s position at the top of the IFL 2026-27 standings, while Nagaland United will look to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.
