Kochi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium witnessed Punjab FC’s masterful performance as they dismantled Kerala Blasters 3-1 in an electrifying ISL 2025-26 encounter. The victory catapults Punjab into fifth position, underscoring their rising momentum in the league.
From the opening whistle, Punjab dictated proceedings with relentless pressure. Sameer Jeljkovic opened the scoring with a moment of brilliance, capitalizing on Kerala’s shaky start. Errors in the Blasters’ midfield gifted Bede Osuji his goal, extending the lead. Danny Ramirez sealed the first-half dominance with a third, putting the match beyond doubt at the break.
Kerala emerged revitalized after halftime, injecting pace into their attacks. Falu Ndiaye’s towering header midway through the second period sparked hope, narrowing the gap to 3-1. Despite sustained pressure, Punjab’s backline remained impenetrable.
The game turned decisively when Kerala’s Marlon Roos-Trujillo was sent off with a red card, hampering their late surge. Punjab FC now boasts 8 points from five outings, firmly in fifth spot. Kerala, with a solitary point from six matches, slips to 13th. Sameer Jeljkovic’s stellar showing earned him the Player of the Match award, highlighting Punjab’s streak of three straight wins in Kochi—a rare league achievement.