Gokulam Kerala FC and Namdhari Sports Academy ended in a 1-1 draw in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 at the Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri, Kerala. Thabiso Nelson Brown scored for Gokulam Kerala in the 33rd minute, while Seilenthang Lotjem equalized for Namdhari in the 73rd minute, resulting in both teams securing their second consecutive draw this season.
Gokulam Kerala’s head coach, Derick Pereira, made changes to the starting lineup by introducing Thabiso Nelson Brown and Aman CK in the attack. On the other hand, Namdhari’s coach, Harpreet Singh, also made alterations, with Niraj Kumar starting in goal and Karan Kumar Sharma in defense.
The match saw Gokulam Kerala dominating possession early on, with Captain Francisco Perdomo Borges playing a pivotal role in midfield. Despite Namdhari’s solid defense, they struggled to convert their chances in the attacking third. Gokulam Kerala took the lead in the 33rd minute through a goal by Thabiso Nelson Brown, assisted by Borges.
In the second half, Namdhari intensified their attacks, utilizing the wings effectively. A strategic substitution by Namdhari saw Abdoulaye Diallo assisting Seilenthang Lotjem for the equalizer in the 73rd minute. Both teams pushed for a late winner, but the match ended in a 1-1 draw after a tense finish with no decisive goals.
