Punjab FC produced one of their most complete performances of the season, dismantling Kerala Blasters FC 3-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi in the Indian Super League, ISL 2025-26.
A ruthless first-half showing, led by Samir Zeljković, Bede Osuji, and Dani Ramírez, ensured the visitors took full control of the contest early and never relinquished their grip.
The victory lifted Punjab FC to fifth place with eight points from five matches, while Kerala Blasters continued their difficult run, remaining 13th with just one point from six games. It also marked Punjab’s third consecutive win in Kochi—an impressive record that underlines their growing confidence away from home.
High Press Sets the Tone
From the opening whistle, Punjab FC made their intentions clear. Under head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis, the side adopted an aggressive high-pressing approach that immediately unsettled the hosts. Kerala Blasters, led by David Català, struggled to cope with the intensity and repeatedly conceded possession in midfield.
The breakthrough arrived as early as the seventh minute. A well-weighted lofted pass from Khaiminthang Lhungdim found Samir Zeljković making a perfectly timed run. The Bosnian midfielder showed composure beyond expectation, chesting the ball past the advancing goalkeeper before calmly slotting it into an empty net to open his account for the season.
The early goal set the tone for what would be a dominant first half.
Photo: Thangapandi / Focus Sports / ISL
Kerala Blasters’ inability to retain possession proved costly again in the 18th minute. A misplaced pass from Hormipam Ruivah was intercepted by Zeljković in a dangerous area. Demonstrating excellent awareness, he quickly released Bede Osuji with a simple through ball. The Nigerian striker controlled the pass with precision before firing a left-footed shot past Arsh Shaikh to double Punjab’s lead.
At this stage, Punjab were dictating every aspect of the game tempo, space, and transitions. Their pressing structure forced repeated turnovers, while their forward line capitalised with clinical efficiency.
The third goal just before halftime effectively ended the contest. Once again, Zeljković was at the heart of the move, intercepting another loose pass and initiating a swift transition. Manglenthang Kipgen’s curling effort from distance struck the crossbar, but Dani Ramírez reacted quickest, heading home the rebound into an empty net.
A 3-0 lead at halftime reflected Punjab’s dominance and Kerala’s lack of cohesion.
Blasters Show Brief Fightback
The second half saw a slight shift in momentum as Kerala Blasters attempted to regain control. With nothing to lose, they pushed forward and began to show more attacking intent, particularly through Kevin Yoke, whose dribbling provided a rare spark on the flanks.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 65th minute. A long-range attempt from Naocha Singh forced a save from Punjab goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh. The rebound was quickly recycled into the box by Jai Quitongo, where Fallou Ndiaye rose sharply to head home and pull one back for the hosts.
The goal injected some energy into the stadium and briefly raised hopes of a comeback.
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Despite conceding, Punjab FC remained composed. Rather than panicking, they adjusted their approach, dropping deeper and focusing on defensive organisation. Their backline held firm, cutting off passing lanes and limiting Kerala’s ability to create clear chances.
The Blasters struggled to convert their increased possession into meaningful opportunities. Their only notable chance came through Quitongo, whose effort was comfortably saved. Punjab’s disciplined defensive structure ensured that the home side’s momentum never translated into sustained pressure.
As the game entered stoppage time, Kerala’s frustration became evident. Marlon Roos-Trujillo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, compounding a disappointing evening for the hosts.
While Punjab’s performance was a collective effort, Samir Zeljković stood out as the central figure. His goal, assist, and overall influence in midfield made him a deserved Player of the Match.
Beyond the numbers, it was his ability to read the game anticipating passes, initiating transitions, and maintaining composure that defined his performance. He was instrumental in Punjab’s pressing strategy and played a key role in all three first-half goals.
Punjab FC’s victory was built on three key pillars: high pressing, midfield dominance, and clinical finishing. Their ability to force errors and immediately convert them into scoring opportunities proved decisive. For Kerala Blasters, the match exposed recurring issues particularly in midfield transitions and defensive organisation. Despite showing glimpses of attacking quality, their inability to maintain structure cost them heavily.
This result could prove to be a turning point for Punjab FC. With three consecutive wins in Kochi and growing confidence within the squad, they are beginning to establish themselves as a competitive force in the league. For Kerala Blasters, however, the challenges continue. With just one point from six matches, urgent improvements are needed if they are to revive their campaign.
As the ISL season progresses, Punjab FC’s performance in Kochi serves as a reminder of what structured, disciplined football can achieve while Kerala Blasters are left searching for answers after another difficult night.
