GKFC fall to 2-3 defeat against Aakraman SC in semifinal

Gangtok : Gokulam Kerala FC’s campaign in the 42nd All India Governor’s Gold Cup came to an end after a narrow 2–3 defeat against Aakraman SC Sikkim in the semifinal at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, on Tuesday.

Despite a spirited performance and several scoring opportunities, the Malabarians were unable to secure a place in the final, with a late penalty deciding the contest.

Aakraman SC Sikkim took an early lead in the first half, putting GKFC on the back foot. However, the Malabarians responded strongly, with Brazilian striker Crislan Henrique scoring his first goal for the club in the 30th minute with a well-placed header to bring the score level at 1–1.

GKFC created several promising opportunities before the break and could have gone into half-time with a significant advantage. However, missed chances in front of goal meant the teams went into the interval level.

The Malabarians continued their attacking approach after the restart, and their persistence paid off when Crislan scored his second goal of the match in the 70th minute, giving GKFC a deserved 2–1 lead.

Aakraman SC Sikkim responded by capitalising on a misplaced pass from GKFC to find the equaliser, making it 2–2 and setting up a tense finish.

With the match heading towards its conclusion, Aakraman were awarded a penalty in the dying minutes and converted it to take a 3–2 lead. GKFC pushed forward in search of another equaliser, earning a corner in the final minute and coming close to scoring, but the opposition held on to secure their place in the final.

The defeat brings GKFC’s Governor’s Gold Cup campaign to a close, despite a determined team effort throughout the tournament. The missed opportunities in the first half proved costly, as the Malabarians were unable to convert their dominance into a more comfortable lead.

GKFC will now turn their attention to the upcoming Indian Football League (IFL), scheduled to begin on October 30, as the team continues its preparations for the new season.