Chandigarh :
Minerva Academy delivered a commanding performance in the AIFF Junior League, defeating RoundGlass Punjab FC 3–2 in a match that reflected Minerva’s dominance despite the narrow scoreline.
Minerva imposed high intensity from the opening whistle, pressing aggressively and controlling possession. The early pressure paid off in just the third minute when Denamoni opened the scoring. The attacking momentum continued throughout the first half, with Minerva dictating play through the flanks and central channels.
After creating multiple chances and even striking the crossbar, Minerva doubled their lead in first-half stoppage time as L. Mahesh found the net in the 45+1 minute, giving his side a comfortable 2–0 lead at halftime.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Minerva maintaining control and breaking down RoundGlass Punjab’s defensive setup. However, against the run of play, RoundGlass Punjab pulled one back on a counterattack while Minerva were pressing high up the pitch.
Minerva responded strongly, and the decisive third goal came in the 84th minute when K. Chetan finished clinically to restore the two-goal cushion. Although RoundGlass Punjab managed to score from a late long-range free kick to make it 3–2, Minerva continued to attack until the final whistle.
With this victory, Minerva Academy consolidated their position at the top of Group A. After four matches, the team sits firmly at the summit with 12 points and an impressive +29 goal difference, underlining their dominance and consistency in the league so far.
