TRAU were held 2-2 by Mumbay FC after a stoppage-time own goal, while Zinc Football Academy defeated Samaleswari Sporting 3-1 in I-League 3 matches at SAI Turf Ground on April 28.
IMPHAL – The I-League 3 2025–26 season delivered contrasting outcomes in a double-header at the SAI Turf Ground on April 28, with a late twist denying Tiddim Road Athletic Union (TRAU) victory before Zinc Football Academy secured a controlled win in the afternoon fixture.
Late own goal denies TRAU full points
In the morning encounter, Tiddim Road Athletic Union and Mumbay Football Club played out a gripping 2-2 draw, with the result hanging in the balance until stoppage time.
TRAU appeared poised to clinch all three points before a dramatic turn in the 90+1 minute saw Shitaljit Atom inadvertently concede an own goal, allowing Mumbay FC to snatch a share of the spoils. The late setback overshadowed an otherwise competitive performance from the Manipur side.
Nandha Kumar Ananthraj emerged as a standout performer for TRAU, earning the Player of the Match accolade after contributing one of the team’s goals and maintaining a consistent attacking presence.
The closing stages of the match were marked by tactical adjustments from both benches. Mumbay FC introduced Dhruvmil Pandya and Parag in the 90th minute in a final push to alter the outcome, while TRAU responded by bringing on Moirangthem Diya Singh in the 87th minute to reinforce their structure. Despite these changes, the late own goal ultimately dictated the final result.
Zinc FA dominate second-half to seal win
The afternoon fixture produced a more decisive outcome as Zinc Football Academy defeated Samaleswari Sporting 3-1, showcasing superior control, particularly in the latter stages of the match.
After a competitive first half, Zinc Football Academy gradually asserted dominance, with Karan Beniwal playing a pivotal role. His goal in the 71st minute proved crucial in shifting momentum firmly in Zinc’s favor and extending their advantage.
Zinc FA maintained composure in the closing minutes, managing the game effectively while making calculated substitutions. Subhash Damor replaced Akash Oraow in stoppage time (90+2), reinforcing the team’s defensive stability as they closed out the match.
Samaleswari Sporting attempted to regain control through multiple second-half changes, including the introduction of Akshat Shaw in the 86th minute and Haridas Yumnam during stoppage time. However, these adjustments failed to produce the desired turnaround as Zinc Football Academy held firm.
With these results, the day’s fixtures reflected both the unpredictability and competitive depth of the I-League 3 season, where late drama and disciplined execution continue to shape outcomes across matches.
