Minerva Academy FC secured the championship of the AIFF Sub-Junior League 2025-26 by defeating Classic Football Academy 4-1 at Scamper Park, FC Madras in Mahabalipuram. Khutheipham Muktar Rehman, Ngayaiza Zingyo, Rimoson Singh Huidrom, and Khumanthem Lanchenba Meitei scored for Minerva Academy FC, while Ngangom Suman Singh netted a goal for Classic Football Academy.
In the eighth minute, Khutheipham Muktar Rehman’s exceptional corner-kick found the net, initiating Minerva Academy FC’s lead. Ngayaiza Zingyo extended the lead in the 27th minute with a powerful strike after dispossessing a Classic Football Academy player.
Captain Rimoson Singh Huidrom added a third goal for Minerva Academy FC in the 33rd minute with a long-range shot that hit the post before going in. The Punjab side dominated the first half with seven shots on target and 60% possession.
Despite a slower-paced start to the second half, Classic Football Academy managed to score through Ngangom Suman Singh’s header in the 70th minute. However, Minerva Academy FC’s goalkeeper Tonmoy made a crucial save to maintain their lead.
Minerva Academy FC sealed their victory in the 90th minute with Khumanthem Lanchenba Meitei converting a penalty kick. This win marked their redemption from the previous year’s final defeat, capping off a successful campaign in this season’s tournament.
