Kerala Blasters FC defeated Chennaiyin FC 3-1 in the Indian Super League 2024-25 season on Thursday. Notably, they achieved their first-ever away victory against Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.

Korou Singh Makes History

At 18 years and 58 days, Korou Singh became the second-youngest goal-scorer in ISL history. He is just behind Komal Thatal, who scored at 18 years and 43 days in 2018.

Early Lead for Kerala Blasters

Right from the start, Kerala Blasters took control. In the third minute, Korou pushed forward but lost possession. However, Chennaiyin’s defenders failed to clear the ball. Consequently, Jesus Jimenez seized the opportunity and slotted it past Mohammed Nawaz. A few minutes later, Jimenez almost scored again. He controlled a long pass from Sachin Suresh and sprinted past defenders. However, Nawaz made a crucial save to deny him.

Chennaiyin FC Struggles

As the game progressed, Ryan Edwards and Irfan Yadwad had chances but missed. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC’s problems grew when Wilmar Jordan Gil received a red card for an altercation with Milos Drincic. As a result, Coach Owen Coyle substituted Mandar Rao Dessai for the injured Landinliana Renthlei.

Blasters Double Their Lead

Chennaiyin tried to equalize when Lukas Brambilla attempted a shot, but it went off target. Just before halftime, Kerala Blasters struck again. Kwame Peprah held the ball and passed to Adrian Luna. Subsequently, Luna set up Korou, whose shot deflected and beat Nawaz.

Second-Half Domination

After halftime, Chennaiyin pushed forward aggressively. Shields came close to scoring but missed. Moments later, Kerala Blasters capitalized in the 56th minute. Luna led a fast counterattack and sent a low cross to Peprah, who toe-poked it past Nawaz to make it 3-0.

Late Consolation for Chennaiyin

In response, Coyle made multiple substitutions, bringing in Daniel Chima Chukwu, Vincy Barretto, and Elsinho. Nevertheless, Kerala Blasters controlled possession well. TG Purushothaman introduced Noah Sadaoui, who helped maintain control. In injury time, Chennaiyin FC managed to score a consolation goal. Irfan Yadwad delivered a smart cross, and Vincy Barretto finished with precision. Despite this, Kerala Blasters held firm and secured their seventh win of the season. Consequently, they now sit eighth in the standings with 24 points.

Key Performer: Adrian Luna

Luna played a crucial role with two assists. Additionally, he created four chances, made two tackles, and recorded an interception. He also completed 49 of his 58 passes.

Upcoming Matches

Looking ahead, Chennaiyin FC faces East Bengal FC on February 8. Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters FC will take on Mohun Bagan Super Giant on February 15.