Crislan’s stoppage-time header gives Gokulam Kerala 3-2 win over Samaleswari

Debutant Crislan Henrique headed home in stoppage time to give Gokulam Kerala a 3-2 victory over Samaleswari SC at the Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode on October 31, 2026, opening their Indian Football League campaign. The header was the Brazilian’s second goal of the night.

The match was Samaleswari’s first-ever appearance in the IFL; the Odisha club produced a spirited display and enjoyed a measure of good fortune but ultimately could not overcome the two-time champions. Gokulam asserted themselves early in the contest and remained the more composed side across the 90 minutes.

Gokulam took the lead in the 16th minute when Crislan struck powerfully with his left foot to break the deadlock. The hosts maintained momentum after that opening goal and continued to press for control of the game.

Nine minutes later Makan Chothe extended the advantage to 2-0, finishing from a headed knockdown by Victor da Silva following a cross from Yendrembam Naresh Singh. Gokulam went into the interval leading 2-0, holding 53 percent possession and registering four shots on target while Samaleswari had none.

Samaleswari reduced the deficit through a slice of luck in the 75th minute when Mohammed Rafi turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a throw-in. The visitors then drew level when Jorge Pereyra Díaz converted a penalty at the 90th minute.

Crislan sealed the win by heading in a Sachu Siby cross at 90+7, fetching Gokulam the three full points. The result: Gokulam Kerala 3 (Crislan Henrique 16 & 90+7, Makan Chothe 25) bt Samaleswari SC 2 (Mohammed Rafi 75-og, Jorge Pereyra Díaz 90-pen).

The victory gave Gokulam Kerala three points in their opening IFL fixture while Samaleswari’s debut campaign began with a narrow defeat.