Gokulam Kerala FC produced a composed and efficient performance to secure their first victory of the Indian Football League 2025–26 season, defeating Dempo SC 2-0 at the Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri on Friday.
Goals from Moses Lalrinzuala in the first half and Mirjalol Kasimov late in the game ensured all three points for the hosts, lifting them to fifth in the standings.
For a side that had shown flashes of promise in the opening rounds without converting them into results, this victory represented both relief and a statement. Gokulam Kerala combined attacking intent with defensive discipline, while Dempo’s struggles in the final third continued to cost them, leaving them at the bottom of the table with just two points.
Early Control and Moses’ Moment of Brilliance
The opening exchanges were evenly balanced, with both teams trying to establish control in midfield. Gokulam Kerala, however, gradually began to dictate the tempo, using width and quick transitions to stretch the Dempo defence.
The breakthrough came in the 19th minute, courtesy of a moment of individual brilliance from Moses Lalrinzuala. Receiving the ball on the edge of the box, the winger displayed excellent close control to dribble past two defenders before unleashing a precise low left-footed strike that beat goalkeeper Ashish Sibi at full stretch. It was a goal that shifted the momentum firmly in favour of the hosts.
Following the opener, Gokulam Kerala grew in confidence. Their midfield unit controlled possession effectively, allowing their attacking players to operate in advanced areas. Dempo, on the other hand, struggled to string together meaningful sequences, often forced into hurried clearances under pressure.
Despite their dominance, Gokulam Kerala were unable to extend their lead before the break. Trijoy Das came close with a well-struck effort that forced a sharp save from Ashish Sibi, while Thabiso Brown nearly doubled the advantage when his header crashed against the crossbar.
Dempo’s attacking threat remained limited. Their reliance on the foreign duo of Sebastian Gutierrez and Marcus Joseph yielded little, as Gokulam’s backline maintained a compact and disciplined shape. The visitors’ best opportunity came when Gutierrez found Joseph inside the box, but the striker’s effort lacked conviction and was comfortably handled by goalkeeper Shibinraj Kunniyil.
Turning Point: Missed Penalty and Sustained Pressure
The second half began with Gokulam Kerala continuing their control, and they were handed a golden opportunity to extend their lead within ten minutes of the restart. A defensive error saw goalkeeper Ashish Sibi bring down Thabiso Brown inside the penalty area, prompting the referee to point to the spot.
However, in a moment that briefly kept Dempo in the contest, Ashish redeemed himself with an excellent save. Diving low to his left, he denied Brown’s penalty and pushed the rebound away, preventing further danger.
While the save injected a degree of hope into Dempo’s play, it did little to alter the overall pattern of the match. Gokulam Kerala continued to create chances, moving the ball with purpose and exploiting spaces in the final third.
Watch Exciting Prizes by Playing Sports Quiz – Download IndiaSportsHub App
Dempo attempted to respond by introducing Laxmikant Rane, whose presence added some urgency to their attacking play. The visitors began to show more intent going forward, but their finishing continued to let them down.
At the other end, Ashish Sibi remained busy, producing another crucial save to deny Thabiso Brown from close range after a well-worked move involving Kingslee Fernandes and Trijoy Das. The goalkeeper’s performance was one of the few positives for Dempo on an otherwise difficult evening.
Gokulam Kerala eventually put the game beyond doubt in the 83rd minute. Mirjalol Kasimov, who had been influential throughout the second half, won a penalty after being brought down inside the box by Aubin Kouakou.
Stepping up to take the spot-kick, Kasimov showed composure and precision, dispatching a powerful strike into the top-right corner. The goal not only doubled Gokulam’s lead but also reflected their persistence and control over the course of the match.
Watch Exciting Prizes by Playing Sports Quiz – Download IndiaSportsHub App
Dempo mounted a late surge during the seven minutes of added time, pushing players forward in search of a consolation. Centre-back Aubin Kouakou, deployed in an advanced role, came close with a volley that drifted wide.
Moments later, Shibinraj Kunniyil produced a standout save to deny Laxmikant Rane, ensuring his side maintained a clean sheet. It was a fitting end to a disciplined defensive display from the hosts. For Gokulam Kerala, this victory could prove to be a turning point in their season. Head coach Dimitris Dimitriou’s tactical adjustments, including changes in personnel and structure, appeared to pay off, as the team displayed greater balance and control.
The performance highlighted key improvements better ball retention, sharper attacking movements, and a solid defensive foundation. Importantly, they showed the ability to manage different phases of the game, from early dominance to late-game control.
For Dempo SC, however, concerns remain. Despite moments of promise, their inability to convert chances and maintain defensive discipline continues to hinder their progress. As the league progresses, Gokulam Kerala will look to build on this momentum, while Dempo must regroup quickly to avoid falling further behind in the standings.
