ISL: East Bengal FC breaks winless streak with victory over Kerala Blasters FC- Talking points

East Bengal FC secured a much-needed 2-1 victory over Kerala Blasters FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, snapping their four-game winless streak in the ISL 2024-25 season, on Friday.

A first-half strike from PV Vishnu and a second-half header from Hijazi Maher were enough to seal the win, despite a late consolation goal from Danish Farooq.

#5: Early Lead by PV Vishnu

East Bengal took control in the 20th minute when PV Vishnu, after a brilliant pass from Cleiton Silva, dribbled past his marker and chipped the ball over Kerala Blasters’ keeper Sachin Suresh. The goal gave East Bengal the early advantage and boosted their momentum.

#4: Kerala Blasters’ Response and Missed Opportunities

Kerala Blasters dominated possession in the first half but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Despite their attacking efforts, a few opportunities, including Noah Sadaoui’s close-range attempt, were thwarted by East Bengal’s defense.

#3: Hijazi Maher Seals the Win with a Header

In the 72nd minute, East Bengal doubled their lead when Hijazi Maher rose above the defense to head home a corner kick delivered by Naorem Mahesh Singh, marking his second goal of the campaign.

#2: Kerala’s Late Goal by Danish Farooq

Despite being two goals down, Kerala Blasters kept fighting and got a goal back in the 84th minute. Danish Farooq latched onto a loose ball and calmly slotted it past the goalkeeper to make it 2-1, but they couldn’t find the equalizer in the closing stages.

#1: Lalchungnunga’s Defensive Masterclass

Lalchungnunga was the standout performer for East Bengal. The young defender was instrumental in stopping Kerala’s key attackers, including Noah Sadaoui and Dimitrios Diamantakos, making crucial blocks and clearances throughout the match.

What next for both teams?

East Bengal FC will lock horns with Mumbai City FC on January 31, whereas Kerala Blasters FC will face Chennaiyin FC on January 30. Both teams will look to build on this result as their respective campaigns continue.

Brief Scores

East Bengal FC (PV Vishnu 20’ Hijazi Maher 72’) 2-1 Kerala Blasters FC (Danish Farooq 84’)