Kerala script second half comeback against Mizoram to clinch Swami Vivekananda U20 Men's NFC title
Narainpur, May 27
Kerala scripted a sensational comeback to clinch the Swami Vivekananda U-20 Men's National Football Championship title after defeating Mizoram 4-2 in a thrilling final at the Ramakrishna Ashrama Ground 1 here on Wednesday.
Trailing 0-2 at half-time, Sheril Shaji Thomas once again proved to be Kerala's talisman as he scored a crucial brace, including a stoppage-time penalty, to guide his side to the title and finish as the tournament's top scorer with 13 goals. His goals came in the 71st and the 95th (90+5) minutes, according to All India Football Federation (AIFF) release.
Ajith KR sparked the comeback with Kerala's first goal in the 55th minute before substitute Shamil EK produced a brilliant finish to put Kerala ahead in the 83rd minute. For Mizoram, Mesak C Lalrinngheta opened the scoring with a stunning long-range curler in the 11th minute before setting up Vanlairamnghaka for their second goal in the 34th minute in an impressive first-half display.
Mizoram had looked firmly in control during the opening half. Their attacking football caused Kerala plenty of problems, and they took the lead in spectacular fashion in the 11th minute.
Mesak C Lalrinngheta received the ball near the edge of the box on the right side and noticed Kerala goalkeeper Fayad Firoz slightly off his line. The forward then unleashed a stunning curling effort that dipped beautifully into the top corner.
The confidence flowing through the Mizoram side was evident, and they doubled the lead in the 34th minute with a brilliantly crafted move.
Lalrinngheta turned provider this time as he threaded a precise through ball into the path of Vanlairamnghaka. The striker showed composure beyond his years as he raced clear, rounded the goalkeeper, and calmly slotted the ball into the empty net.
Kerala, however, emerged with a transformed side after the break. Their response began in the 55th minute when Ajith KR pulled one back from a corner. Mizoram failed to clear the danger, and the ball fell kindly to Ajith, whose powerful strike took a wicked deflection off Isak Lalvenhima before finding the net.
The goal shifted the momentum completely in Kerala's favour. Mizoram, who had looked comfortable earlier, suddenly found themselves under relentless pressure. Kerala drew level in the 71st minute after a costly mistake from goalkeeper Lalhruaitluanga Kawlni. Danish MV struck a fierce shot from outside the box, which should have been gathered comfortably, but the goalkeeper spilt the ball, and Sheril Shaji Thomas reacted quickest to tap home the rebound.
With the contest finely poised, Kerala delivered the decisive blow in the 83rd minute. Substitute Shamil EK produced a moment of brilliance inside the box as he turned sharply before firing a superb left-footed strike beyond the goalkeeper to put Kerala ahead for the first time in the match.
Mizoram's frustrations boiled over deep into stoppage time when Eddie Lalhmangaihzuala brought down Ummer Afaf CA inside the penalty area.
The referee awarded a penalty and sent off Lalhmangaihzuala for a second booking, while Freddy Lalruatkima was also dismissed following the ensuing fracas.
Sheril Shaji Thomas calmly converted the spot-kick in the fifth minute of injury-time to seal a famous victory and spark jubilant celebrations among the Kerala players and supporters.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Mizoram played brilliantly in the first half, that curler by Mesak C Lalrinngheta was world class! But Kerala's second half tactical change was spot on. Ajith KR's goal changed the momentum completely. Great final for Indian football!
Sheril Shaji Thomas is a gem! 13 goals in one tournament is no joke. The way he scored that penalty under pressure in stoppage time shows real character. Kerala Football Association should nurture these boys properly, we need more investment in grassroots.
This is the kind of match that makes Indian football exciting! Young players showing skill, determination, and passion. The sending off at the end was unfortunate but emotions run high in finals. Congratulations to Kerala and well played Mizoram!
What a match! Mesak's goal was pure magic, that curl was unstoppable! And then Kerala's fightback, especially Shamil EK's finish! 🎉 Indian football is rising and these U20 boys are proof. More such tournaments needed!
Kerala teams always have this never-say-die attitude. Down 2-0 and they came back like lions! Proud moment for Malayali football fans. Hope AIFF gives these boys proper opportunities in senior teams.
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