Defending champions Minerva Academy Football Club delivered another dominant performance in the quarterfinals of AIFF Sub-Junior League 2025–26 by defeating Alchemy FA 5-2 at the Madras FC Ground in Mahabalipuram.
With the win, the side secured the place in the semifinals of the national round. The Mohali team entered the knockout clash carrying strong momentum from an unbeaten group-stage campaign. Despite Alchemy setting up in a defensive formation, while Minerva stayed committed to their aggressive approach.
The match began at a lively pace, but it was Alchemy who struck first in the third minute through a quick counter-attack, taking an early 1-0 lead.
However, the defending champions responded with composure and took complete control of possession.
Their equaliser arrived in the 30th minute, when Maniton shot a stunning strike from outside the penalty area into the top corner to make it 1-1.
Moments later, Akash produced another moment of brilliance with a powerful long-range effort that helped Minerva post a 2-1 lead. Before halftime, Rimoson added a third goal. After the lemon-break, Minerva held ball for the most time.
In the 56th minute, Rimoson scored his second goal of the evening to extend the lead to 4-1. Alchemy managed to score another goal, briefly reducing the deficit to 4-2, but Minerva quickly restored their lead.
In the 71st minute, Ngayaiza scored another goal for Minerva, taking the team to 5-2.
