Kerala Blasters Edge Past Mohammedan Despite Early Lead

Sayak Banerjee | 21-Oct 2024

Mohammedan Sporting’s woes continue as they squandered an early lead to lose 2-1 to Kerala Blasters at the Kishore Bharati Stadium. Despite a bright start, Chernishev’s men couldn’t hold off a resurgent Kerala side, prolonging their winless streak.

Mohammedan opened the scoring through a penalty converted by Kasimov after Franca was fouled inside the box. However, defensive lapses cost them dearly in the second half. Papera equalized in the 67th minute, followed by Jimenez’s header in the 75th, sealing Kerala’s comeback.

Chernishev’s attacking intent was evident early on, but the Brazilian forward Franca found little space against a disciplined Kerala defense. Adding to their troubles, defender Joseph Adjei’s injury forced an early substitution. The team’s momentum fizzled out as fatigue set in, leaving them exposed at the back.

Mohammedan remains in 11th place on the league table, with much work needed to address their defensive frailties and late-game lapses.