Face2News./Chandigarh
Minerva Academy FC continued their dominant run in the AIFF Junior League with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Punjab FC, completing a remarkable double over their neighbours.
(MOREPIC1) Heading into the clash on the back of seven consecutive wins, Minerva faced a Punjab FC side whose only defeat in the league had previously come against the Warriors themselves. The match lived up to its billing as a tightly contested encounter.
Minerva made the perfect start as Laishram Mahesh Singh, the league’s top scorer, struck within the opening minute to give the visitors an early lead. However, a costly defensive lapse allowed Punjab FC to fight back, with Deepak finding the equaliser to bring the hosts level before halftime. The sides went into the break locked at 1–1.
The Warriors regained control in the second half and continued to dominate proceedings. Their persistence paid off when Lunjalaithang Haokip showed composure inside the box, calmly slotting the ball into the corner with his weaker right foot to restore Minerva’s lead.
Despite late pressure, Minerva held firm to secure a 2–1 victory, underlining their authority in the competition.
With the win, Minerva Academy FC now boast eight wins from eight matches, maintaining a perfect record while extending their impressive goal difference to +56. The result also confirms their qualification for the next stage of the tournament, with two group matches still remaining. The Warriors will next face Snow Leopards FC as they look to maintain their flawless run in the closing fixtures of the group stage.
