Kerala Blasters FC clawed back from a deficit to earn their maiden point of the ISL 2025-26 season, thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer from striker Mohammad Ajmal. The 1-1 stalemate against East Bengal FC unfolded in front of a packed crowd at Kolkata’s iconic stadium during the league’s 31st matchday.
Tactical tweaks defined the lineups. East Bengal welcomed back captain Saul Crespo and PV Vishnu, while Catala’s Blasters opted for fresh legs with Sandeep Singh replacing Vikas Yummanam, alongside Danish Farooq, Falu Ndiaye, and Abindas Yesudasan.
East Bengal drew first blood early. In the 10th minute, Edmund Lalrinfika fed Yusuf Ajezari inside the box, only for Aibanha Dohling’s foul to concede a penalty. Ajezari stepped up confidently, deceiving the goalkeeper to open the scoring.
Undeterred, Kerala Blasters dominated possession and created waves of pressure. Post-interval, they neutralized East Bengal’s attacks, with their backline masterfully containing threats from Ajezari and Ferreira. A training-ground corner nearly doubled the lead for the hosts, but Basim Rashid’s effort sailed just wide.
The game’s turning point arrived deep into added time. East Bengal’s defense faltered on a corner, gifting Ajmal the perfect header opportunity. He rose highest to nod it home, securing Player of the Match honors and a precious point that keeps Kerala Blasters’ playoff dreams flickering.