Victor Matheus brace fires Gokulam Kerala into Gold Cup semi-finals

Gokulam Kerala FC booked their place in the semi-finals of the 42nd All India Governor’s Gold Cup 2026 with a 2–1 victory over Sudeva Delhi FC at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, on Friday, courtesy of a second-half brace from Brazilian forward Victor Matheus.

After a goalless first half, Victor scored in the 63rd and 73rd minutes to secure an important victory for the Malabarians and extend their campaign in the tournament.

Sudeva Delhi FC started the match with energy and organisation, disrupting Gokulam’s passing combinations through the midfield. The young Delhi side maintained a compact shape and limited GKFC’s attacking opportunities, ensuring that the first half ended 0–0 despite efforts from both teams to break the deadlock.

Gokulam returned for the second half with greater attacking intent. Victor Matheus and Crislan Henrique came on as substitutes and strengthened team's attack in the second half.the pressure on their opponents.

The breakthrough arrived in the 63rd minute when Victor Matheus found the net to put Gokulam ahead. Sudeva Delhi FC responded with an equaliser to make it 1–1, setting up a tense finish.

However, Victor struck again in the 73rd minute, completing his brace and restoring Gokulam’s lead. The Malabarians held on to their advantage during the closing stages to seal a 2–1 win and confirm their place in the last four.

Victor’s continued scoring form proved decisive, following his goal in Gokulam's previous match in the competition. The impact of the second-half substitutions and the tactical approach of head coach Carlos Eduardo Parreira also contributed to the team’s comeback after a challenging opening period.

Gokulam will face the winner of the quarter-final between Sikkim Aakraman FC and East Bengal FC in the semi-final on 13 October.