In a thrilling Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 opener, Punjab FC edged out Kerala Blasters 2-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi. The match, which looked destined to end in a goalless draw, came alive in the dying minutes with all three goals being scored after the 86th minute. Punjab FC kicked off their ISL campaign in style, taking home three points, while Kerala Blasters were left ruing missed opportunities.
A Late Flurry of Goals
For much of the game, fans were treated to a tactical battle between the two sides. Both teams struggled to break through each other’s defenses, and it seemed as though the match would end in a frustrating stalemate. But as the game wore on, tensions increased, and with just minutes left on the clock, the drama truly began to unfold.
In the 86th minute, Punjab FC’s Leon Augustine earned a crucial spot-kick after being fouled inside the box. The reliable Luka Majcen, Punjab’s captain, stepped up and coolly converted the penalty, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to give Punjab a 1-0 lead. The stadium in Kochi fell silent as Kerala Blasters fans could feel the game slipping away.
However, the Blasters were not going down without a fight. In the second minute of stoppage time, Pritam Kotal delivered a perfectly curled cross from the right wing, finding an unmarked Jesus Jimenez in the box. Jimenez’s header was powerful and precise, leaving the Punjab goalkeeper with no chance and leveling the score 1-1. The crowd erupted as Kerala Blasters seemed to have salvaged a point at the very last moment.
But the match wasn’t over. Punjab FC, showing remarkable resilience, pushed forward for one last attack. In the 95th minute, Luka Majcen, once again the hero for his team, delivered a brilliant volleyed pass that found Filip Mrzljak inside the box. Mrzljak calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net, giving Punjab the decisive 2-1 lead and clinching all three points.
Tactical Battle Between Teams
From the outset, the match was a display of well-drilled defenses and calculated offense. Kerala Blasters, playing in front of their home crowd, controlled much of the early possession but struggled to break down Punjab’s organized defense. Punjab, on the other hand, appeared content to absorb pressure and hit Kerala Blasters on the counter.
Both teams had a few half-chances in the first half, with Punjab’s Augustine coming closest to breaking the deadlock with a shot that was tipped over the bar. Kerala’s Jimenez, despite his later heroics, was largely kept quiet by the resolute Punjab defense, and the home side struggled to create any meaningful opportunities.
In the second half, Kerala Blasters showed more attacking intent, but their efforts were frequently thwarted by Punjab’s solid defensive setup. The game seemed to be drifting towards a dull draw until the final 10 minutes, where it burst into life with quick goals from both teams.
Key Players: Majcen and Mrzljak
The standout players for Punjab FC were undoubtedly Luka Majcen and Filip Mrzljak. Majcen, who led his team by example, was involved in both of Punjab’s goals. His penalty in the 86th minute was calm and composed, while his perfectly timed volleyed pass in the 95th minute set up the winning goal. Majcen’s leadership on the field was instrumental in securing Punjab’s victory.
Filip Mrzljak also deserves praise for his composed finish in the final moments of the match. With the pressure on, Mrzljak kept his cool and slotted the ball home, showing why he is such a valuable player for Punjab.
For Kerala Blasters, Jimenez was the star. His powerful header in stoppage time gave Kerala hope and demonstrated his clinical finishing ability. While his efforts couldn’t secure a point for his team, his goal will give the Blasters some confidence moving forward in the season.
FAQs
Punjab FC won the match 2-1 with a late winner by Filip Mrzljak in the 95th minute.
Punjab’s first goal came from a Luka Majcen penalty in the 86th minute, and the winning goal was scored by Filip Mrzljak in stoppage time after an assist from Majcen.
Kerala Blasters equalized in stoppage time through a powerful header from Jesus Jimenez, who connected with a perfect cross from Pritam Kotal.
The key moments were Majcen’s penalty in the 86th minute, Jimenez’s equalizer in stoppage time, and Mrzljak’s match-winner in the 95th minute.
Both teams will be looking to build on this thrilling match. Kerala Blasters will aim to bounce back in their next fixture, while Punjab FC will look to continue their winning momentum.
Conclusion
The Kerala Blasters vs Punjab FC match was a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that the Indian Super League offers. Punjab’s dramatic 2-1 win, capped by Mrzljak’s last-minute heroics, will be a game to remember for fans. Kerala Blasters, while disappointed with the result, showed great spirit in fighting back, and there’s still plenty of time for them to make their mark this season.
