In a pulsating Indian Super League (ISL) encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, Kerala Blasters FC orchestrated a remarkable second-half comeback to clinch a 2-1 victory against East Bengal FC. The electrifying atmosphere created by the passionate home crowd witnessed the Blasters overturn a one-goal deficit in the final 30 minutes, securing all three points in dramatic fashion.
First Half Stalemate
The opening half was a tightly contested affair, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to break the deadlock. Forwards Jesus Jimenez and Dimitrios Diamantakos came close for their respective sides, but neither could convert their chances, leaving the scoreline goalless at the interval.
East Bengal Strikes First
The deadlock was finally broken in the 59th minute when East Bengal FC took the lead through a well-worked team goal. A clearance from Kerala Blasters FC defender Sandeep Singh was intercepted by Nandhakumar Sekar, who quickly laid the ball off to Diamantakos inside the box. The Greek forward, displaying excellent vision and selflessness, opted to square the ball to 22-year-old Vishnu PV on the right. Vishnu made no mistake, tapping the ball into the net to give the visitors the advantage.
The Blasters’ Fightback
Kerala Blasters FC’s response was swift and decisive. Noah Sadaoui, the team’s dynamic striker, took center stage in the 63rd minute. Showcasing his exceptional dribbling skills and movement, Sadaoui weaved his way through the East Bengal FC defense before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Singh Gill to level the scores.
The equalizer energized both the team and the home crowd, with the Blasters visibly growing in confidence as the match progressed.
Last-Minute Drama
Just as it seemed the match might end in a draw, Kerala Blasters FC found a way to snatch victory in the dying moments of the game. In the 88th minute, a hurried clearance from East Bengal FC defender Anwar Ali fell to Mohammed Aimen. The alert Aimen quickly spotted Kwame Peprah in space near the edge of the penalty area. Peprah, demonstrating composure under pressure, took his time before firing the ball into the net, sending the home fans into raptures.
Sadaoui’s Star Performance
Noah Sadaoui’s influence on the game extended far beyond his crucial equalizing goal. The former FC Goa star put in a complete performance, completing an impressive 25 out of 30 passes, making a vital tackle, delivering six crosses, and capping it off with his stunning solo effort to bring Kerala Blasters FC back into the match.
Looking Ahead
The victory marks the first win for Kerala Blasters FC under the guidance of new coach Mikael Stahre. The team will look to build on this momentum when they face NorthEast United FC on September 29.
East Bengal FC, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back from this disappointing defeat when they take on FC Goa on September 27.
Final Score
Kerala Blasters FC – 2 Noah Sadaoui (63′), Kwame Peprah (88′)
East Bengal FC – 1 Vishnu PV (59′)
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