The Kerala Blasters bounced back strongly after three straight losses, securing a commanding 3-0 victory against Mohammedan Sporting Club in Kochi.
Resurgence Amidst Challenges
Kerala Blasters entered Sunday’s Indian Super League (ISL) match at the Nehru Stadium in Kochi under immense pressure. With head coach Mikael Stahre and his assistants recently sacked, the team faced mounting criticism. However, the Kochi-based side displayed resilience, overcoming their struggles to secure a decisive 3-0 win against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting Club.
Crucial Win in a Tough Season
The victory marked a significant turnaround for the Blasters, who had suffered three consecutive defeats before this match. The three points lifted them to the 10th spot in the 13-team ISL standings, while Mohammedan Sporting Club remained rooted to the bottom. The win offered a glimmer of hope for Kerala Blasters fans, who had eagerly awaited a revival.
Strong Start but Missed Opportunities
The Blasters began the game with intensity, particularly exploiting the left flank. Key players like Noah Sadaoui and Adrian Luna created numerous opportunities, delivering precise crosses into the penalty area. However, forward Kwame Peprah struggled to capitalize on these chances, leaving the scoreline unchanged for much of the first half.
Mohammedan’s Defensive Resolve
Despite their position at the bottom of the table, Mohammedan Sporting Club put up a solid defensive display. Their backline, coupled with quick counterattacks, kept Kerala Blasters on their toes for nearly an hour. Bhaskar Roy, Mohammedan’s goalkeeper, made several crucial saves, holding the fort admirably until the match took a dramatic turn.
A Game-Changing Error
The breakthrough for Kerala Blasters came in the 62nd minute, courtesy of a costly error by Bhaskar Roy. Attempting to clear Luna’s corner kick, Roy inadvertently punched the ball into his own net, gifting the Blasters a much-needed lead. The own goal proved to be the turning point, shifting momentum decisively in favor of the home side.
Sealing the Victory
Buoyed by the lead, Kerala Blasters grew in confidence. In the 80th minute, Noah Sadaoui doubled their advantage with a well-placed header, converting a pinpoint cross from Korou Singh. The fans erupted in celebration as the team displayed newfound vigor.
Substitute Alexander Coeff added the finishing touch in the 90th minute, scoring the third goal to cap off an emphatic performance. His precise strike left no doubt about Kerala Blasters’ dominance on the night.
Fan Reactions and Future Prospects
The resounding victory was a morale booster for the Blasters and their passionate supporters, who packed the stands at the Nehru Stadium. The chants and cheers throughout the match reflected the fans’ unwavering faith in their team, even during challenging times.
Looking ahead, the Blasters will aim to build on this performance to climb further up the table. The result showcased the team’s potential when playing with confidence and cohesion, providing a roadmap for the remainder of the season.
Match Summary
Result: Kerala Blasters 3 (Bhaskar Roy 62-og, Noah Sadaoui 80, Alexander Coeff 90) bt Mohammedan Sporting Club 0.
The Kerala Blasters’ revival against Mohammedan Sporting Club serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football. For more updates on the ISL, visit the official ISL website.
(Photo credit: ISL)