Gokulam Kerala beat Rajasthan United to top IFL table

Gokulam Kerala FC defeated 10-man Rajasthan United FC 1-0 in their Indian Football League 2026-27 match at Vidyadhar Nagar Stadium on Saturday, moving to the top of the standings with six points from two matches.

Brazilian forward Crislan da Silva scored the decisive goal in the 68th minute to secure all three points for the two-time champions. Rajasthan’s challenge became tougher when Novin Gurung received a straight red card in the 78th minute for bringing down Crislan, who was through on goal.

Both teams started with attacking intent, creating opportunities through the flanks. Gokulam’s Victor da Silva tested Rajasthan goalkeeper Amrit Gope in the fifth minute, while Ricky Vanlalhriatsanga attempted to respond for the hosts with an effort that went wide.

Rajasthan threatened through Diego Mauricio, whose attempt in the 17th minute was blocked for a corner. A minute later, Judah Garcia delivered a dangerous cross, but Gokulam goalkeeper Shibin Raj collected the ball before Mauricio could connect.

Gokulam gradually gained control and created opportunities towards the end of the first half. Crislan came close with a header from Victor’s corner in the 38th minute, while Lalramsanga’s long-range effort narrowly missed the target four minutes later. Both teams went into the break goalless.

The second half began at a slower pace, with Gokulam enjoying greater possession but struggling to create clear openings. The visitors eventually broke the deadlock when Sarthak Golui sent a long ball forward in the 68th minute. Adrian Castellano’s attempted headed clearance fell behind him, allowing Crislan to lift the ball over the advancing goalkeeper and find the net.

Rajasthan attempted to respond, but Christopher Kamei’s free-kick in the 73rd minute failed to clear the defensive wall.

The hosts suffered another setback five minutes later when Novin Gurung was sent off for fouling Crislan outside the penalty area as the Brazilian advanced towards goal.

Despite being reduced to 10 players, Rajasthan continued pushing for an equaliser. Pranjal Bhumij tested Shibin Raj with efforts in the 84th minute and first minute of added time, but the Gokulam goalkeeper made crucial saves to preserve the lead.

The victory took Gokulam Kerala to six points from two matches, while Rajasthan United remained without a point.

Gokulam Kerala will next face Nagaland United Sports Club at Chümoukedima Football Stadium in Dimapur on November 14. Rajasthan United will travel to Rourkela to take on Samaleswari SC on November 15.