The Indian Super League (ISL) 2025 witnessed a match for the ages as Kerala Blasters pulled off a gutsy 1-0 win over Punjab FC, despite playing the final 15 minutes with just nine men. Interim coach T G Purushothaman must be basking in glory after one of the season’s finest defensive performances. The match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi was an intense battle of grit, determination, and strategy.
First Half: The Blasters Take an Early Lead
Kerala Blasters didn’t waste time in asserting dominance. In the 12th minute, a precise free-kick from Adrian Luna found Dimitrios Diamantakos, who smashed the ball past Punjab FC’s keeper with clinical precision. The early goal put the home team in the driver’s seat and set the tone for the game.
However, Punjab FC wasn’t one to bow down easily. They retaliated with a flurry of attacks, testing the Blasters’ defense with Juan Mera and Brandon Vanlalremdika leading the charge. But the Blasters’ backline, led by Marko Leskovic, stood firm, ensuring the visitors couldn’t find the equalizer.
Second Half: Drama Unfolds
The game turned chaotic in the second half. Kerala Blasters’ Nishu Kumar received his second yellow card in the 65th minute for a reckless challenge, reducing the hosts to 10 men. Punjab FC smelled blood and intensified their attacks, only to be thwarted time and again by Sachin Suresh, who was in sensational form between the sticks.
Just when it seemed like things couldn’t get worse for Kerala, Rahul KP was shown a straight red card in the 75th minute for dissent. Down to nine men with 15 minutes left, the Blasters were staring at a potential collapse.
Final 15 Minutes: A Defensive Masterclass
The final quarter of the game saw Punjab FC throwing everything they had at the Blasters. Luka Majcen came agonizingly close to equalizing, but his thunderous strike was miraculously saved by Sachin Suresh, who dived full stretch to keep the ball out.
In the dying moments, Suresh was once again Kerala’s hero, denying Chencho Gyeltshen with a stunning reflex save. The Blasters’ defensive line, now operating with sheer desperation, cleared every loose ball and blocked every shot to secure a hard-fought victory.
Post-Match Reactions
T G Purushothaman (Kerala Blasters Interim Coach):
“This team has heart! Playing with nine men for 15 minutes is no easy task. I’m proud of their fight and discipline.”
Sachin Suresh (Kerala Blasters Goalkeeper):
“The last 15 minutes felt like an hour. But this is what we train for, and I’m glad I could contribute to the team’s victory.”
Staikos Vergetis (Punjab FC Coach):
“We had our chances, but we lacked the clinical edge. Full credit to Kerala for their resilience.”
Key Performances
- Sachin Suresh (Kerala Blasters):
- A wall in goal, making crucial saves in the final minutes.
- Dimitrios Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters):
- Scored the decisive goal and was a constant threat in attack.
- Juan Mera (Punjab FC):
- Orchestrated Punjab’s attacks and came close to scoring.
- Marko Leskovic (Kerala Blasters):
- Led the Blasters’ defense with composure and authority.
Match Stats
Statistic | Kerala Blasters | Punjab FC |
---|---|---|
Possession (%) | 42% | 58% |
Shots (on target) | 4 (2) | 10 (5) |
Corners | 3 | 7 |
Fouls | 12 | 8 |
FAQs
Dimitrios Diamantakos scored the only goal of the match in the 12th minute.
Kerala Blasters were down to nine players after two red cards in the second half.
The early goal by Diamantakos, Sachin Suresh’s heroic saves, and Kerala’s disciplined defense in the final minutes were the standout moments.
Conclusion: A Victory to Remember
This match will go down as one of the most dramatic encounters in ISL 2025. Kerala Blasters showcased unmatched resilience, securing a win that will not only boost their confidence but also serve as a testament to their fighting spirit. For Punjab FC, the game highlighted the need for sharper finishing in crucial moments.
With this win, Kerala Blasters have reignited their ISL campaign, while Punjab FC must regroup and focus on their next fixture.
Final Score: Kerala Blasters 1-0 Punjab FC