Kerala Blasters FC pulled off a dramatic 2-1 victory against Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Thursday. The match saw a late winner from defender Jesus Hernandez in stoppage time, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Match Summary
Odisha FC took the lead in the first half through a well-taken goal by Diego Mauricio. The Brazilian striker capitalized on a defensive error to slot the ball past the Kerala goalkeeper. The Blasters struggled to find their rhythm in the opening period but came out stronger after the break.
Kerala equalized in the 62nd minute when Alvaro Vazquez headed home from a corner kick. The goal lifted the spirits of the home team, who pushed forward in search of a winner. Despite several chances, it seemed the match would end in a draw until Hernandez rose highest to meet a cross in the 90+4th minute, heading the ball into the net.
Key Moments
- Diego Mauricio scored for Odisha FC in the 23rd minute.
- Alvaro Vazquez equalized for Kerala Blasters in the 62nd minute.
- Jesus Hernandez scored the winner in the 90+4th minute.
The victory moves Kerala Blasters up to fourth in the ISL standings, while Odisha FC remains in eighth place. Both teams have now played 10 matches each in the current season.
Post-Match Reactions
Kerala Blasters head coach Ivan Vukomanovic praised his team's resilience. "We never gave up and kept believing until the end. The boys showed great character to come from behind and win," he said. Odisha FC's coach Kiko Ramirez expressed disappointment but acknowledged the tough nature of the competition.
