In a thrilling conclusion to their Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 Championship Phase match at Kalyani Stadium, Chanmari FC managed to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Rajasthan United FC on Tuesday. Rajasthan seemed poised for their first Championship Phase victory after taking a two-goal lead, courtesy of Gerard Artigas and Thomyo L. Shimray. However, Chanmari's late surge, initiated by Lalruatsanga, saw them equalize with a stunning goal from substitute Michael Lalbiaksanga in the 98th minute, as per a release.
Rajasthan United FC dominated the early game, but Chanmari frequently threatened on counter-attacks led by Lalruatsanga and João Vitor de Paula Morais (Jota). Chanmari's Lalruatsanga forced an early save from goalkeeper Dinesh Choudhary, while Jota's ambitious shot sailed over the crossbar.
The Desert Warriors found their rhythm, with forwards Amadou Soukouna, Pranjal Bhumij, and Thomyo effectively collaborating in attack alongside William Pauliankhum. Despite this, Chanmari's captain Lalrinchhana Tochhawng and defender Marlon Rangel held firm defensively.
Around the 25-minute mark, Rajasthan capitalized on a defensive error. Goalkeeper Zothanmawia was caught off his line due to a misplaced back pass from Zothanpuia, allowing Artigas to score from distance. Rajasthan nearly extended their lead shortly after, but Zothanpuia redeemed himself by blocking another attempt from Artigas.
Chanmari continued to pose a threat during transitions, with Jota creating opportunities from the flanks. Rajasthan struck again just before half-time when midfielder Kiatalua Tadeu Emous (Norberto) delivered a precise through ball to Thomyo, who rounded the goalkeeper and scored from a tight angle, making it 2-0 in the 41st minute.
The second half began with Chanmari displaying urgency, believing they had narrowed the gap within the first five minutes. Midfielder Joel Lalramengmawia scored from distance after a scramble, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
The Mizoram-based team continued to press forward, with Jota linking up well with substitute Pedro Lucas Silva (Pepe). Lalruatsanga consistently troubled the Rajasthan defense on the right. Goalkeeper Dinesh made crucial saves around the 67th and 68th minutes to deny attempts from Jota and C. Lalmuanpuia.
In the 70th minute, Chanmari came close again when Jota penetrated the area and shot after slipping the ball past captain Novin Gurung, but Rajasthan defenders cleared the danger off the line.
The breakthrough for Chanmari finally came in stoppage time. In the 92nd minute, a lofted ball from the right found Lalruatsanga, who skillfully guided it into the net with his chest, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
Chanmari continued their relentless pursuit and found the equalizer deep into added time. After a corner was partially cleared in the 98th minute, substitute Michael Lalbiaksanga unleashed a long-range shot from the right. Dinesh failed to secure the ball, which slipped through his legs and crossed the line, completing the comeback.
Chanmari FC finished the match strongly, securing a dramatic point, while Rajasthan United FC was left disappointed after relinquishing their two-goal lead in the final moments.
