In a highly anticipated clash at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, Kerala Blasters FC and NorthEast United FC played out a thrilling 1-1 draw in the Indian Super League (ISL) on Sunday. The match was characterized by its high intensity, with both sides displaying end-to-end football that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The game began with a blistering pace as both teams looked to assert their dominance early on. Kerala Blasters FC, led by their Moroccan superstar Noah Sadaoui, made the more significant moves in the opening stages. Sadaoui, along with Jesus Jimenez and Danish Farooq, combined effectively in the attack, causing numerous problems for the NorthEast United defense.
Kerala Blasters FC almost broke the deadlock when Sadaoui beat his marker and made a dazzling run down the left flank. He delivered a precise pass to Farooq in the box, but the 28-year-old midfielder failed to connect with the ball, which could have easily been the opening goal.
Sadaoui continued his relentless pursuit of the opener, attempting a powerful shot from outside the box. The effort narrowly missed the top corner, leaving the fans gasping. As the first half progressed, the momentum started to shift towards NorthEast United FC. Jithin MS made a surging run forward and set up Guillermo Fernandez in a promising position near the penalty area. Unfortunately for the hosts, Fernandez’s shot was brilliantly saved by Sachin Suresh and deflected out.
Moments later, a clever combination between Fernandez and Alaeddine Ajaraei saw the latter unleash a grounded effort that forced yet another sensational save from Suresh, as the ball brushed off the post. The first half ended with both teams failing to find the back of the net, but the promise of goals was evident.
The second half began with Kerala Blasters FC coach Mikael Stahre making a strategic substitution, bringing on Kwame Peprah for Alexandre Coeff to inject more creativity into the attack. The visitors started the second half with renewed energy, and Rahul KP was particularly involved in their offensive efforts.
Kerala Blasters FC had a golden opportunity to take the lead when a deflected free-kick from Vibin Mohanan landed perfectly for Rahul KP in the penalty area.
. However, his shot was not on target, and Gurmeet Singh in the NorthEast United FC goal remained untested.
In the 58th minute, NorthEast United FC finally broke the deadlock thanks to a moment of brilliance from Alaeddine Ajaraei. The Moroccan midfielder struck a free-kick straight on goal, and while it seemed like a routine save for Suresh, the young goalkeeper made an uncharacteristic error, allowing the ball to cross the line and giving the hosts a 1-0 lead.
Despite conceding the goal, Kerala Blasters FC continued to push forward in search of an equalizer. Sadaoui’s dazzling dribbles created several openings, and their persistence paid off in the 67th minute. Substitute Mohammed Aimen released Sadaoui just outside the box, and the Moroccan superstar showcased his class by dribbling past multiple defenders and firing a superb shot into the bottom left corner, leaving Gurmeet Singh with no chance and leveling the score at 1-1.
The intensity of the match escalated further when NorthEast United FC’s Asheer Akhtar received a red card in the 82nd minute following a reckless challenge on Noah Sadaoui. This left the Highlanders with ten men for the remainder of the game. Kerala Blasters FC tried to capitalize on their numerical advantage, and Aimen almost found the winner on two occasions. In one instance, he skillfully maneuvered past the on-rushing Gurmeet but was denied by a last-ditch tackle from Michel Zabaco.
In the end, neither team could find a decisive goal, and the match concluded in a 1-1 draw. It was a result that showcased the resilience and determination of both sides. NorthEast United FC will be ruing missed opportunities, while Kerala Blasters FC can take solace in salvaging a crucial point on the road.
This gripping encounter highlighted the competitive nature of the ISL, with both teams leaving no stone unturned in their quest for victory. The match had a little bit of everything—brilliant individual performances, stunning saves, and moments of sheer excitement.
The next fixture for Kerala Blasters FC will see them return to their home ground as they aim to build on their performance. NorthEast United FC, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup and address the challenges they faced in this thrilling encounter.
