Kerala Blasters FC ended their 2023-24 Indian Super League season on a winning note, defeating Hyderabad FC 3-1 at the Gachibowli Stadium on Friday.
The Blasters secured a convincing victory despite Hyderabad entering the match as favorites. The home side started strong but failed to convert their chances. Kerala Blasters capitalized on their opportunities, with Milos Drincic scoring the opening goal from a corner in the first half.
Hyderabad pressed for an equalizer in the second half, but the Blasters defense held firm. The visitors then extended their lead through two more goals, solidifying their win. Hyderabad did manage a consolation goal in the closing stages, but it proved too little, too late.
This result sees Kerala Blasters finish the season in a respectable position, while Hyderabad FC will be left to rue their missed chances.
Key Takeaways:
- Kerala Blasters FC secured a 3-1 victory over Hyderabad FC.
- Milos Drincic opened the scoring for the Blasters from a corner.
- Hyderabad FC failed to convert their chances throughout the match.
- The win sees Kerala Blasters end the season on a positive note.
The 3-1 victory for Kerala Blasters over Hyderabad FC saw goals from Mohammed Aimen, Daisuke Sakai, and Nihal Sudeesh. Here’s a breakdown of each:
- 1-0 Kerala Blasters (Mohammed Aimen, First Half): The goal originated from a well-taken corner. Aimen rose above the Hyderabad defense and directed a powerful header past the goalkeeper, giving the Blasters the lead.
- 2-0 Kerala Blasters (Daisuke Sakai, Second Half): Following a strong run down the flank, Mohammed Aimen found himself in good space and delivered a perfectly placed cross for Daisuke Sakai. The Japanese midfielder made no mistake with a simple tap-in, doubling the Blasters’ advantage.
- 3-0 Kerala Blasters (Nihal Sudeesh, Second Half): Nihal Sudeesh, a young talent for the Blasters, capitalized on a defensive lapse by Hyderabad. He broke free and slotted the ball home, putting the game out of reach for the home side.
- 1-3 Hyderabad FC (Joao Victor, Second Half): Despite trailing by a significant margin, Hyderabad managed a consolation goal in the closing stages. Joao Victor found the back of the net, but it wasn’t enough to spark a comeback.
Hyderabad FC vs Kerala Blasters FC: A Post-Match Review
Kerala Blasters Dominate Despite Hyderabad’s Favoritism
Friday night’s Indian Super League encounter between Hyderabad FC and Kerala Blasters FC saw a surprising turn of events. While Hyderabad entered the match as favorites, Kerala Blasters emerged victorious with a convincing 3-1 win. Here’s a closer look at the key points of the match:
Kerala Blasters’ Clinical Finishing:
- The Blasters capitalized on their scoring opportunities, unlike Hyderabad. Mohammed Aimen’s well-placed header from a corner in the first half put them in the lead.
- The second half saw a similar story. Aimen, this time playing provider, sent in a perfect cross for Daisuke Sakai to tap in, doubling the lead.
- Youngster Nihal Sudeesh further cemented the victory by pouncing on a defensive lapse from Hyderabad and slotting the ball home.
Hyderabad’s Missed Chances and Defensive Woes:
- Despite their favored position, Hyderabad failed to convert their chances. Their attacking efforts lacked the finishing touch, allowing the Blasters to stay in the game.
- The home side’s defense proved vulnerable throughout the match. Aimen’s free header from a corner exposed weaknesses in marking.
- The second goal conceded was a result of disorganization in the box, leaving Sakai unmarked for an easy tap-in.
- Nihal Sudeesh’s breakaway goal highlighted another defensive lapse, where Hyderabad’s backline was caught out of position.
Looking Ahead:
- This win provides a morale boost for Kerala Blasters as they finish their season on a positive note. Their final league position might improve with this victory.
- For Hyderabad FC, the loss is a disappointing end to their campaign. Coach Thangboi Singto will need to address the team’s finishing issues and defensive frailties in preparation for the next season.
