28th February was a memorable night for newly promoted Inter Kashi, as they defeated Kerala Blasters 2-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi to secure their first win in the Indian Super League.
The visitors delivered a clinical performance to clinch their first win, after two consecutive draws in the first two matches of the 2025-26 ISL season. Alfred Planas stole the spotlight, securing the Player of the Match award.
Inter Kashi head coach Antonio Habas made three changes to the squad, starting midfielder Wayne Vaz, Lithuanian striker Nauris Petkevičius and defender Narender.
Inter Kashi started attacking from the start of the game through Rohit Danu unleashing a shot from distance, which was saved by Kerala goalkeeper Arsh Shaikh. Nauris Petkevičius opened the scoring in the 34th minute, with Alfred Planas providing the assist with a precise through ball. Kerala Blasters had opportunities in front of the goal, but failed to convert.
The visitors took a slender one goal lead at half time.
In the second half, Kerala Blasters put up an offensive display testing the visitors’ defence. The visitors showcased a compact defensive structure, leaving little space for the attackers to find an equaliser. The backline also helped in creating counter-attacking opportunities.
In the 66th minute, Muhammad Ajsal got the first shot on target for the home side, which was saved by Lluis Tarrés, denying the chance to equalise.
The Spanish goalkeeper once again made a crucial save, denying Kevin Yoke’s attempt and preserving Inter Kashi’s lead. The visitors showed their resilience frustrating the home side, who were trying to equalise.
Photo: Shibu Preman / Focus Sports / ISL
Alfred Planas scored in the 78th minute to increase Inter Kashi’s lead, with Nauris Petkevičius providing the assist. Alfred got the ball on the right-side of the box, placing it with his right foot into the left side of the net.
Despite trailing 2-0, Kerala Blasters kept on looking for a breakthrough with intensified attacks. They were able to find the net in the 84th minute, with Víctor Bertomeu scoring from Ebindas Yesudasan set-piece ball. This goal put the Blasters back in the game as they began searching for the equaliser.
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Despite relentless pressure, Inter Kashi held firm to protect their lead. Bertomeu got two opportunities with one header blocked and another going wide late in the game. With the clock ticking down, the defenders stood tall, clearing attacks while guarding the precious lead.
At full time, the score was still in favor of Inter Kashi and they had sealed their first win in the Indian Super League. They put up a complete performance with tactical discipline and clinical finishing. This win surely gave the visitors a confidence boost in top-flight football.
Inter Kashi’s Historic Victory
This match will forever be remembered by the club and the fans as it marked the beginning of their new era in the top tier ISL. This win will inspire the team and boost their confidence going into the next games. The victory not only gave three points to the side, but also instilled belief that they can challenge established Indian Super League sides and create upsets. The players showed resilience, tactical discipline and composure, qualities that will help them in the season ahead.
For a newly promoted side, this performance is more than a result, it is a chance to make their presence felt in Indian Football’s top tier. This match will surely help Inter Kashi build momentum and instill belief in the squad.
The Third Promoted Team
Inter Kashi became the third team to be promoted to the Indian Super League after Punjab FC and Mohammedan SC.
Punjab FC earned promotion in 2023–24 after winning the I-League. They registered six wins in their debut campaign and showed that promoted sides could compete with ISL teams. Mohammedan SC followed in 2024–25, bringing their Kolkata legacy into the league. Now, Inter Kashi have joined this select group, representing Uttar Pradesh on the biggest football stage for the first time.
This victory was a statement by the newly promoted side, showing they are here to challenge ISL clubs and are capable of upsetting giants. They have shown that newcomers can make an immediate impact.
As the first professional club from Uttar Pradesh to compete in the ISL, their triumph is a source of pride for the region. This victory is likely to inspire interest in football and nurture local talent. Inter Kashi will look to build on this victory and aim for a top half finish.
