ISL: Mumbai City FC Overpowers Kerala Blasters- Talking points

Mumbai City FC’s pulsating 4-2 triumph over Kerala Blasters FC at the Mumbai Football Arena delivered a masterclass in resilience, grit, and explosive play.

With the game deadlocked at 2-2 into the final stages, a series of dramatic late goals and penalties tipped the scale in favor of Mumbai, securing them their second win of the ISL 2024-25 season.

Here are the top five talking points from this high-octane match.

#5 Nikolaos Karelis’s Brilliance Sets the Tone Early

Nikolaos Karelis led Mumbai City’s attack with precision, netting two pivotal goals, one in each half.

His first goal came in the 9th minute from a well-timed assist by Lallianzuala Chhangte, demonstrating perfect positioning and sharp execution.

Karelis was equally composed when converting a penalty in the 55th minute, maintaining pressure on Kerala’s defense and securing a temporary 2-1 lead for Mumbai.

His remarkable accuracy—completing 10 of 11 passes—made him a standout performer.

#4 Kerala’s Comeback Efforts and Kwame Peprah’s Impact

Kerala Blasters didn’t go down without a fight. Kwame Peprah, a relentless force in their attack, earned a penalty in the 57th minute, which Jesus Jimenez converted to make it 2-1.

Shortly after, Peprah’s powerful header from an Adrian Luna assist equalized the game in the 71st minute.

Peprah’s influence was undeniable, pushing Kerala back into contention, but his red card shortly after his equalizer left Kerala vulnerable, changing the game’s momentum.

#3 Nathan Rodrigues’ Historic Goal in the 85th Minute

In the 85th minute, 20-year-old Nathan Rodrigues etched his name into ISL history as the fourth youngest goalscorer for Mumbai City FC.

Positioned perfectly after a corner delivery by Brandon Fernandes, Nathan took full advantage of a defensive lapse by Kerala to drill the ball into the net, giving Mumbai a decisive lead.

His goal exemplified the club’s belief in young talent, and his cool finish under pressure demonstrated maturity beyond his years.

#2 Lallianzuala Chhangte’s Penalty Clinches the Game

Just as Kerala Blasters sought to regroup, a foul by Vibin Mohanan in the 90th minute gifted Mumbai City a crucial penalty.

Lallianzuala Chhangte, the team captain, confidently converted, sending the ball into the bottom right corner to secure a two-goal cushion.

Chhangte’s leadership and composure in high-stakes moments capped off a memorable performance, sealing the game and underscoring his influence on Mumbai City’s forward play.

#1 Mumbai City’s Defensive Resilience and Kerala’s Missed Opportunities

While Mumbai’s late goals stole the spotlight, their defensive setup played an equally critical role.

Despite Kerala’s aggressive attacks, Mumbai’s defenders managed to stymie several attempts, especially after Peprah’s red card.

Kerala, meanwhile, grappled with missed chances and defensive lapses, especially during Nathan’s goal and the late penalty.

The result highlighted both teams’ strengths and areas for growth as they look ahead in the ISL season.

What next for both teams?