ISL 2024-25: Kerala Blasters beat Punjab FC despite seeing two red cards, Noah Sadoui scores solitary goal

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ISL 2024-25: Kerala Blasters FC displayed extraordinary resilience to defeat Punjab FC 1-0 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi in an ISL 2024-25 clash. A solitary goal by Moroccan forward Noah Sadaoui, scored from the penalty spot in the first half, proved decisive as the visitors held firm despite being reduced to nine men by the end of the match.

The game began cautiously, with both teams focusing on maintaining defensive discipline. Kerala Blasters showed early intent, with Noah Sadaoui creating opportunities in the opening quarter. Punjab FC dominated possession but failed to convert it into meaningful chances in the first 20 minutes.

The deadlock was broken in the 44th minute when Sadaoui made a surging run down the left flank and was fouled in the box by Punjab's Suresh Meetei. Sadaoui confidently converted the resulting penalty, giving Kerala Blasters the lead before halftime.

Punjab FC introduced Leon Augustine at the start of the second half, aiming to add pace and pressure. The momentum shifted against Kerala Blasters in the 58th minute when Milos Drincic was shown a second yellow card for blocking Augustine, reducing the visitors to 10 men. Kerala's interim head coach, TG Purushothaman, adjusted by bolstering the defense, substituting Sadaoui with Alexandre Coeff.

The situation worsened for Kerala Blasters in the 74th minute as Aibanbha Dohling received a red card for a dangerous challenge on Augustine. Down to nine men, the Blasters faced relentless pressure from Punjab FC. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Kerala's defensive unit held firm, nullifying Punjab's attempts to find an equalizer.

Noah Sadaoui, who played only 65 minutes, was the standout performer. In addition to scoring the decisive goal, he created three chances, delivered five crosses, and completed 14 of his 17 passes.

With this victory, Kerala Blasters are now just three points behind sixth-placed Odisha FC in the playoff race. Punjab FC, on the other hand, suffered their fourth consecutive defeat. Punjab FC will face NorthEast United on January 10 in Guwahati, while Kerala Blasters will host Odisha FC on January 13.