Kerala Blasters delivered a commanding performance at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Sunday, defeating Chennaiyin FC 3-0 in the Indian Super League (ISL). A second-half resurgence, led by Noah Sadaoui’s dazzling display, ended the Blasters’ three-match losing streak and propelled them to eighth place in the standings.
The Morocco-born American forward played a pivotal role, contributing a goal and an assist as Kerala Blasters showed their best form.
Goals from Spaniard Jesus Jimenez and substitute K.P. Rahul rounded off a memorable night for Ivan Stahre’s side, while Chennaiyin FC, who had entered the match on the back of two consecutive victories, struggled to find their rhythm.
Despite the pressure from recent defeats, the Blasters began confidently. Their passing was crisp, and they created multiple chances in the first half, though none were converted. Chennaiyin had a golden opportunity to take the lead when Wilmar Jordan broke through the defense, but his lob over goalkeeper Sachin Suresh sailed just over the bar.
The breakthrough came in the 56th minute. Captain Adrian Luna initiated a brilliant move down the left, weaving into the box before a brief scramble allowed Korou Singh to pass to Jimenez. The Spaniard calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Mohammed Nawaz, putting the Blasters in the driver’s seat.
Sadaoui, who had been threatening throughout the match, doubled the lead in the 70th minute. Receiving a precise cross from Luna, Sadaoui struck a stunning left-footed shot into the far corner of the net, leaving Nawaz with no chance.
In injury time, Sadaoui once again showcased his creativity. Racing down the right, he drew the goalkeeper before delivering a pinpoint cross to substitute K.P. Rahul, who made no mistake in sealing the 3-0 victory.
Chennaiyin FC struggled to replicate their recent form. Their attack lacked sharpness, and apart from Jordan’s first-half chance, they rarely threatened the Blasters’ defense.
This emphatic win provides much-needed momentum for the Blasters as they aim to climb higher in the league table. For Chennaiyin FC, the loss is a reality check after their recent successes, and they will need to regroup quickly.
Result: Kerala Blasters 3 (Jesus Jimenez 56, Noah Sadaoui 70, K.P. Rahul 90+2) bt Chennaiyin FC 0.
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