Kerala Blasters FC delivered a thrilling performance to defeat Punjab FC 1-0 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on January 5, 2025, marking their valuable comeback within the playoff race of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.
The decisive moment of the match arrived just before halftime when Noah Sadaoui, Kerala's key attacker, netted the only goal from the penalty spot. This goal came after he was fouled by Punjab's Suresh Meetei during a compelling run toward the goal. Sadaoui's cool-headed finish allowed Kerala to take the lead and put them on course for victory.
The match, though, was not without its challenges for Kerala Blasters FC. They faced grim adversity as they found themselves reduced to nine players with two red cards shown to Milos Drincic and Aibanbha Dohling late in the game. Despite this numerical disadvantage, Kerala showcased extraordinary resilience, with their defense and goalkeeper Sachin Suresh performing spectacular saves to maintain their slender lead.
Interim head coach T.G. Purushothaman praised his team’s fighting spirit during the match, stating, “It was difficult as we were playing away and struggling after receiving the second red card. These boys are very talented and technically sound, so they can adapt to all tactics we used.” His faith reflected how well the players managed to maintain their shape against Punjab's attacks.
On the other side, Punjab FC continued to endure frustration as this match marked their fourth consecutive defeat. Head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis expressed disappointment with the results, asserting, “We started something really good here at the beginning and it's been a month but nothing has been good. We don't have the momentum. Any mistake we do, we have to pay.”
Despite having nearly equal possession, Punjab could not create enough chances let alone capitalizing on Kerala's reduced squad. Their inability to convert opportunities haunted their efforts, managing only two shots on target throughout the match.
Dilmperis expressed concern for his younger players' morale, indicating his disappointment at their inability to convert promising performances and opportunities. He remarked, “I’m sad for these kids. I want them to have success; they need and it's necessary for the quality of Indian football.” Sad as it was for the Punjab side, there were moments where they looked very close to equalizing. Their attempts were either thwarted by Kerala's sturdy defense or denied by the impressive save from goalkeeper Suresh.
Despite the growing count of red cards, Kerala’s defense remained unyielding, turning back each wave of concession from Punjab, which only added to the drama of the match. Purushothaman shared his satisfaction with the team’s clean sheet, which was especially significant considering Kerala had not achieved this on the road for 14 consecutive matches prior to this win.
“Lucky we kept a clean sheet. It's good for the team,” Purushothaman added, summarizing his feelings about the importance of this victory and collective teamwork. It was emphasized throughout the match how teamwork played a decisive role; Purushothaman reinforced, “It’s teamwork; as a team we won the match.”
This victory not only bolstered Kerala Blasters FC's playoff ambitions, placing them within three points of sixth-placed Odisha FC but also set the stage for their next home game against Odisha on January 13, 2025. Conversely, Punjab FC's struggle continues as they prepare for their upcoming match against NorthEast United on January 10, 2025.
Overall, the match was emblematic of the unpredictable nature of football, where determination, teamwork, and the ability to withstand pressure reign supreme. Kerala Blasters FC left the pitch as worthy victors, highlighting their strength to maintain composure under pressure and illustrating their potential for the remainder of the season.