Odisha FC staged a thrilling comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Kerala Blasters FC in a lively Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 clash at the Kalinga Stadium.
Both teams had moments of brilliance, but the game ended with a controversial refereeing decision that denied Kerala a late penalty.
Here are the key talking points from the match:
#5 Comeback Kings: Odisha FC’s Resilience
Odisha FC found themselves 2-0 down within the first 20 minutes of the game, thanks to quickfire goals from Kerala Blasters’ Noah Sadaoui and Jesus Jimenez.
However, Odisha showed their trademark resilience, clawing back into the match. An own goal by Alexandre Coeff gave them hope, and a strike from Diego Mauricio leveled the scores before halftime.
Despite not securing the win, Odisha’s fighting spirit earned them a valuable point.
#4 Did Blasters Switch Off?
Kerala Blasters made a fantastic start, but after their second goal, they seemed to lose momentum.
Defensive errors, like Coeff’s own goal and poor clearances, allowed Odisha to regain control. It begs the question: Did Kerala Blasters take their foot off the pedal too early?
The team’s inability to maintain their defensive structure after a dominant start was a key reason they couldn’t secure the win.
#3 End-to-End Action
From start to finish, this game was full of action, with both sides pushing for goals.
Danish Farooq and Noah Sadaoui were constant threats for Kerala, while Diego Mauricio and Jerry Mawihmingthanga created dangerous chances for Odisha.
The game saw multiple near-misses, defensive errors, and exciting chances, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
#2 Blasters Fans Are Omnipresent
Wherever Kerala Blasters play, their fans follow, and the match at Kalinga Stadium was no different. The supporters ensured their presence was felt, creating a lively atmosphere along with the juggernauts.
Kerala’s loyal fanbase continues to be one of the strongest and most passionate in the ISL, lifting the team in key moments.
#1 Refereeing Controversy: A Penalty That Wasn’t Given
A major talking point from the game was a penalty that should have been awarded to Kerala Blasters in the final moments.
Odisha FC’s Amey Ranawade appeared to foul Noah Sadaoui inside the box, and replays confirmed that Amey made no contact with the ball.
Despite this, the referee chose not to award a penalty, a decision that had Kerala’s coach, Mikael Stahre, saying, “If I had been the referee, I would be pointing to the penalty spot.”
This controversial decision adds to the growing criticism of refereeing in the ISL, following similar recent incidents involving other teams.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
• Odisha FC will play East Bengal at home on October 22, aiming to build on their fighting performance.
• Kerala Blasters will travel to Kolkata to face Mohammedan SC on October 20, looking to bounce back from this frustrating draw.