Kochi, March 21 (NationPress) In a commanding performance, Punjab FC triumphed over Kerala Blasters FC with a scoreline of 3-1 during Match 40 of the Indian Super League 2025-26, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Saturday. The first-half goals from Samir Zeljković, Bede Osuji, and Dani Ramírez propelled Punjab FC to victory.

With this win, Punjab FC ascended to the fifth position on the league table, amassing eight points from five matches, while Kerala Blasters lingered in 13th place with merely one point from six games. This victory also marked Punjab FC's third consecutive win in Kochi, making them the second team in league history to achieve this milestone. Samir Zeljković was recognized as the Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.

Kerala Blasters head coach David Català opted for an unchanged starting lineup for the first time this season, while his counterpart Panagiotis Dilmperis made three adjustments, two of which were forced by circumstances. Pramveer Singh stepped into the defense to replace Pablo Renan Santos, Bede Osuji took the place of the suspended Nsungusi Effiong, and Muhammad Suhail returned to the squad, substituting for Leon Augustine.

Punjab FC commenced the match with great intensity, exerting pressure on their opponents and putting their midfield and defense under duress, which resulted in an early goal. Khaiminthang Lhungdim spotted Samir Zeljković making a run and delivered a pass into space. The Bosnian midfielder controlled the ball, evaded the onrushing goalkeeper, and calmly placed it into an open net, marking his first goal of the season.

Kerala Blasters repeatedly squandered possession in midfield, allowing Punjab to exploit their mistakes in the 18th minute. Hormipam Ruivah’s pass was intercepted by Samir Zeljković, who then played a straightforward through ball to Bede Osuji. The Nigerian forward expertly controlled the ball and unleashed a left-footed strike that eluded the grasp of Arsh Shaikh, extending the lead.

Once again, Punjab FC capitalized on the Blasters' midfield errors. Zeljković intercepted a pass and quickly advanced it to Manglenthang Kipgen. The young player executed a curling left-footed shot from outside the box that struck the crossbar and rebounded into play.

Dani Ramírez was quick to react, heading the rebound into an empty net before the defenders could recover, allowing Punjab to carry a commanding 3-0 lead into the second half.

The second half mirrored the first, with the Blasters continuing to lose possession in crucial areas, although this time Zeljković’s attempt was thwarted by the goalkeeper. Conversely, the home side found their rhythm and began to assert themselves, with Kevin Yoke shining on the wings, adding energy to their attack.

Kerala Blasters finally found the net just after the hour mark, courtesy of Fallou Ndiaye. Naocha Singh challenged Arshdeep Singh with a long-range shot following a cleared corner kick. After the save, Jai Quitongo recycled the ball into the box. Ndiaye reacted promptly, heading the delivery past the goalkeeper.

This goal rejuvenated the home side, evident in their heightened attacking efforts, while Punjab opted to play defensively and counter-attack. However, clear chances remained limited for the Blasters, as the Shers maintained their solid defense against the late onslaught. The only notable chance came from Quitongo, whose shot was comfortably saved by Arshdeep Singh.

The night turned increasingly dire for the Blasters as Marlon Roos-Trujillo received a second yellow card during stoppage time, leaving them with ten men. Ultimately, the three first-half goals were sufficient for Punjab FC to claim their second victory of the season, while Kerala Blasters continued to seek their first win.