Kerala Blasters Triumph Over Odisha FC with Late Goal in ISL Clash

Kerala Blasters Secure Victory Against Odisha FC

Kochi (Keralam) [India], April 23: In an exciting match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kerala Blasters FC claimed a 2-1 win against Odisha FC in the Indian Super League 2025-26 on Thursday.

Victor Bertomeu opened the scoring, followed by a dramatic stoppage-time goal from substitute Matias Hernandez, ensuring the home team took all three points.

This victory elevates Kerala Blasters to ninth place in the league standings, accumulating 11 points from 11 matches, while Odisha FC remains in 13th position with just six points from eight games. Bertomeu's outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match title, according to a release.

Kerala Blasters started strong, with Kevin Yoke creating constant pressure on the left side. His early efforts led to the first goal in the 12th minute.

After a driving run and a blocked shot from Hitesh Sharma that deflected into the box, Bertomeu was quick to react, skillfully controlling the ball before finishing from close range to give Kerala the lead.

The Tuskers continued to apply pressure, with Bertomeu testing Odisha's goalkeeper Amrinder Singh shortly after, while Arsh Anwer Shaikh made a crucial save to deny Rahim Ali during Odisha's first significant attack.

Despite Kerala's early control, Odisha began to find their rhythm, gaining more possession and searching for opportunities.

Their efforts bore fruit in the 27th minute when Rahim Ali scored after a well-executed play, combining with Hitesh before placing a composed shot into the bottom corner, leveling the match.

The rest of the first half saw both teams create chances, with Francisco Feuillassier and Nihal Sudheesh coming close for Kerala, while Odisha remained a threat on the counter through Rahim Ali. However, neither team could break the deadlock before halftime.

Odisha came out strong in the second half, earning several early corners and testing Arsh Shaikh, who made a series of vital saves to keep the score level. Kerala's defense, anchored by Aibanbha Dohling and Vibin Mohanan, held firm under pressure.

As the match progressed, both teams had periods of control, but clear chances were scarce. Yoke continued to lead Kerala's attacks from midfield, while Odisha looked dangerous with quick transitions, involving Lalthathanga Khawlhring and Isak Vanlalruatfela in several forward moves.

The match seemed destined for a draw until late drama unfolded in stoppage time. In the 90+3rd minute, Kerala Blasters capitalized on a corner, with substitute Ebindas Y delivering a precise cross. Matias Hernandez, another substitute, timed his run perfectly and headed the ball into the net, securing a vital late winner for the home side.

Kerala nearly scored again moments later through Yoke, but the goal was disallowed for offside, while Odisha's last attempt in stoppage time went wide as they desperately sought an equalizer.

At the final whistle, Kerala Blasters FC celebrated a hard-earned three points, extending their positive momentum, while Odisha FC was left to ponder missed chances despite a commendable performance.