Kerala Blasters edge Mohammedan 3-1, extend five-match unbeaten run
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Kerala Blasters FC delivered a commanding second-half performance to defeat Mohammedan SC 3-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on 10 May, stretching their unbeaten streak to five matches in the Indian Super League 2025-26. Goals from Francisco Feuillassier, Víctor Bertomeu, and Sreekuttan M S secured the victory, with Mahitosh Roy's first-half strike providing brief respite for the visitors.
Kerala's dominance unfolds
The hosts controlled possession from the opening whistle, with midfielder Kévin Yoke orchestrating play down the left flank and repeatedly breaching Mohammedan's defensive shape. Padam Chettri, the visiting goalkeeper, made several sharp interventions early on, including a one-handed save to deny Yoke's header midway through the first half.
Mohammedan's shock lead and swift reply
Against the run of play, Mohammedan struck in the 42nd minute. Roy won possession in midfield, surged forward, and fired a powerful strike from nearly 20 yards into the top corner. However, Kerala responded within two minutes when Feuillassier latched onto a precisely weighted through ball from Yoke and finished calmly into the bottom corner to level before half-time.
Second-half surge decides the contest
Kerala emerged with renewed intensity after the interval, and their persistence bore fruit in the 58th minute. Yoke delivered a precise cross for Bertomeu, who guided a composed header past Chettri to put the hosts ahead. The visitors struggled to generate meaningful attacking play as Kerala continued to dictate tempo and territory.
The decisive third and late drama
In the 74th minute, Kerala extended their advantage. Feuillassier lifted a clever ball into the box where substitute Sreekuttan was perfectly positioned to tap home and make it 3-1. Mohammedan's task became insurmountable in the 86th minute when Amarjit Singh was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, reducing the visitors to ten men. Kerala managed the closing stages with composure, maintaining possession to seal the win.
Standings implications
Ashley Westwood's Kerala Blasters move to eighth place with 14 points from 12 matches. Mohammedan SC remain bottom with just 3 points from 11 games. The club's relegation to the Indian Football League for the next season is now mathematically confirmed if Chennaiyin FC earn even a single point in their fixture later in the day. Mehrajuddin Wadoo's side has endured a season marked by defensive frailties and limited scoring opportunities.