I League Men's Football

Gokulam Kerala FC Clinches 2-0 Victory Over Shillong Lajong FC

In a pivotal I-League match, Gokulam Kerala FC earned a 2-0 victory over Shillong Lajong FC, demonstrating their skill on the field. Going up to third place in the league standings, Gokulam Kerala FC put on a fantastic display, with Sourav K and Matija Babovic leading the scoring charge.

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A Strategic Start:

Both sides entered the game with caution, showing a lack of desire to take unwarranted chances. This tactical approach led to a clumsy and hesitant first half marked by a dearth of forceful offensive moves from either side.

Gokulam Kerala FC’s Tactical Approach:

Gokulam Kerala FC deliberately tried to gain momentum through persistent attacks and holding onto the ball despite their cautious beginning. But their early attempts lacked the penetration Lajong’s strong defense required to be overcome.

Lajong’s Defensive Strategy:

Shillong Lajong FC, on the other hand, took a defensive stance and concentrated on stopping passes and marking Alejandro Sanchez and other important players in order to disrupt Gokulam Kerala’s play. Sanchez, the I-League’s top scorer, was heavily marked and found it difficult to have the usual impact on the game.

Breakthrough Before Half-Time:

In the final minutes of the first half, the impasse was finally broken, putting both goalkeepers to the test. Gokulam Kerala FC took advantage of a defensive lapse on Lajong’s part, allowing Sourav K to score a pivotal goal that gave his team the lead at the half.

Second-Half Dominance:

With greater assurance going into the second half, Gokulam Kerala FC took command of the midfield, setting the game’s pace and demonstrating their superiority over Lajong. Their persistent pressure eventually paid off in the 72nd minute as Matija Babovic scored a well-executed goal to extend the lead and give the home team a comfortable two-goal cushion.

Sanchez’s Playmaking Brilliance:

Alejandro Sanchez demonstrated his ability to set up plays when he masterminded a pivotal move that resulted in the second goal for Gokulam Kerala FC. The decisive shot that Babovic’s accurate pass set up for the Serbian forward underscores Sanchez’s significance to his team’s offensive tactics.

Lajong’s Defensive Resilience:

Shillong Lajong showed defensive tenacity throughout the game, even though they gave up two goals. This prevented Gokulam Kerala from playing well and limited their scoring chances. But in the end, they were unable to overcome a determined Gokulam Kerala side.

Conclusion:

Gokulam Kerala FC’s spirited triumph over Shillong Lajong FC demonstrated their skill and tenacity on the field. Gokulam Kerala scored a lot of goals, led by Sourav K and Matija Babovic, to secure a vital victory that moved them up to third place in the I-League standings and solidified their place as strong competitors in the league.

Match Center

Kerala Gokulam Starting XI

Avilash (GK), Nidhin, Saheef, Alex (C), Nikola, Akhil P, Rishad, Komron, Sourav, Abdul Hakku, Noufal

Shillong Lajong Starting XI

Neitho (GK), Saveme, Daniel, Ronney, Kynsai Khongsit, Renan (C), Ronaldkydon, Arik, Figo, Kynsailhuid, Rudwere

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Kunal M

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Passionate sports photographer capturing the heartbeat of football. Based in Kolkata, I just love to freeze moments of raw emotion, athleticism, and beauty on the pitch. Join me in celebrating the beautiful game through my lens.

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