The ISL 2024-25 season continues to deliver excitement, and Sunday’s clash between NorthEast United FC and Kerala Blasters FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati was no exception. With NorthEast United dominating early, and Kerala Blasters fighting back late, the 1-1 draw left fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. In a game that featured a stunning strike from Ajaraie, a red card for Asheer, and a late equalizer from Noah, both teams earned a hard-fought point.
A Tale of Two Halves
As the match kicked off, NorthEast United looked determined to assert their dominance on home turf. Right from the start, they put Kerala Blasters under pressure, with their forward players aggressively chasing every ball and challenging Kerala’s defense. Ajaraie, in particular, was a standout for NorthEast, showcasing his speed and dribbling skills that would later lead to the opening goal.
Kerala Blasters, however, seemed content to absorb the pressure in the early stages, looking to hit on the counter with their pacey wingers. But NorthEast’s relentless pressing didn’t allow Kerala much breathing room, and before long, it was clear the visitors were struggling to settle into their usual rhythm.
Ajaraie’s Stunning Strike Puts NorthEast Ahead
The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when NorthEast’s persistent efforts paid off. Ajaraie picked up the ball just outside the penalty box, danced past two defenders, and unleashed a rocket into the top corner of the net, leaving Kerala goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Singh Gill with no chance. The Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium erupted in celebration, as NorthEast took a well-deserved 1-0 lead.
For the rest of the first half, NorthEast United continued to control the game, keeping Kerala Blasters’ offense at bay with solid defensive work. The Blasters struggled to create any clear chances, with their attack often breaking down before reaching the final third.
Kerala Blasters Fight Back in the Second Half
After what was surely a stern halftime talk by head coach Ivan Vukomanović, Kerala Blasters returned to the field with renewed energy and determination. Their passing was crisper, and they began to press higher up the pitch, causing problems for NorthEast’s defenders. Kerala’s attacking duo of Adrian Luna and Rahul KP became more involved, driving forward and testing the NorthEast defense.
Despite Kerala’s improved play, they couldn’t break through NorthEast’s defense, which was expertly marshaled by their captain. The tension continued to build, as Kerala’s fans wondered if their team could find an equalizer.
Asheer Sent Off – Turning Point of the Match
The game took a dramatic turn in the 70th minute when NorthEast’s Asheer received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Kerala’s Luna. With NorthEast now reduced to 10 men, Kerala Blasters sensed an opportunity to get back into the game. The momentum shifted entirely in Kerala’s favor as they piled on the pressure, searching for that elusive equalizer.
Noah’s Late Heroics Save the Day
The Blasters’ persistence was finally rewarded in the 85th minute, when substitute forward Noah came up with the moment Kerala had been waiting for. After some brilliant build-up play, Noah found himself in the right place at the right time to slot the ball past NorthEast’s goalkeeper Mirshad Michu, sending the traveling fans into raptures. His calm and composed finish salvaged a vital point for Kerala Blasters and ensured the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Post-Match Reactions
After the match, both coaches expressed mixed feelings about the result. NorthEast United’s coach praised his team’s effort, particularly after going down to 10 men, but acknowledged that losing two points late in the game was disappointing.
Kerala Blasters’ coach, on the other hand, was proud of his team’s resilience and fightback, but emphasized that they need to start matches stronger to avoid falling behind.
FAQs
The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Noah scoring a late equalizer for Kerala Blasters after Ajaraie’s first-half goal for NorthEast United.
Ajaraie scored for NorthEast United, while Noah equalized for Kerala Blasters.
Yes, NorthEast United’s Asheer was sent off after receiving a second yellow card in the 70th minute.
Kerala Blasters equalized in the 85th minute through Noah, who slotted home after some brilliant build-up play.
The match was played at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati.
Conclusion
The 1-1 draw between NorthEast United and Kerala Blasters was a match full of drama, excitement, and crucial moments that defined the outcome. For NorthEast, Ajaraie’s wonder goal and their strong first-half performance showed their quality, but the red card and Noah’s late equalizer highlighted the need for discipline and composure in key moments.
Kerala Blasters, meanwhile, will be happy to have rescued a point, but there are clear areas for improvement, especially in the early stages of matches. As the ISL 2024-25 season progresses, both teams will be looking to build on this result and push for a strong finish in the standings.
