Punjab FC Dominates Kerala Blasters with 3-1 Victory in ISL Clash
Match Overview
In a thrilling encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on March 21, 2026, Punjab FC secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Kerala Blasters FC during Match 40 of the Indian Super League 2025-26. The win propelled Punjab FC to fifth place in the standings, amassing eight points from five matches, while Kerala Blasters languished at 13th with only one point from six games. This victory marked Punjab's third consecutive win in Kochi, making them the second team in league history to achieve such a feat. Samir Zeljkovic was named Player of the Match for his exceptional performance.
Kerala Blasters' head coach David Català opted for an unchanged starting lineup for the first time this season, while Punjab's coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made three changes, two of which were forced. Pramveer Singh replaced Pablo Renan Santos in defense, Bede Osuji took the place of the suspended Nsungusi Effiong, and Muhammad Suhail returned to the starting XI in place of Leon Augustine.
Punjab FC began the match with high energy, applying pressure on their opponents and forcing mistakes in midfield. Their efforts paid off early when Khaiminthang Lhungdim delivered a precise pass to Samir Zeljkovic, who skillfully controlled the ball and slotted it into an empty net, marking his first goal of the season.
Kerala Blasters struggled with possession, and Punjab capitalized on this in the 18th minute. After intercepting a pass from Hormipam Ruivah, Zeljkovic set up Bede Osuji, who expertly finished with a left-footed shot, doubling Punjab's lead.
Punjab continued to exploit the Blasters' midfield errors. Zeljkovic intercepted another pass and quickly fed Manglenthang Kipgen, whose curling shot hit the crossbar. Dani Ramírez was quick to react, heading the rebound into the net, giving Punjab a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime.
The second half saw Kerala Blasters attempt to regain control, with Kevin Yoke showcasing impressive dribbling skills. They finally found the net in the 61st minute when Fallou Ndiaye scored with a powerful header after a corner kick was recycled into the box, injecting new life into the home side.
Despite their efforts, clear chances remained limited for the Blasters, as Punjab's defense held strong. The situation worsened for Kerala when Marlon Roos-Trujillo received a second yellow card in stoppage time, leaving them with ten men. Ultimately, Punjab FC's first-half goals secured them their second win of the season, while Kerala Blasters continued to search for their first victory.