ISL: Alba’s Brace Hands Hyderabad FC 2-1 Win Over Kerala Blasters; Contentious Penalty Enrages Fans In Kochi

Hyderabad FC defeated Kerala Blasters 2-1 in their ISL 2024-25 encounter on Thursday, November 7, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi. A brace from Alba Andrie and a controversial referee decision in favor of the Nawabs sealed the victory for them. (Match Highlights)

The game started positively for Kerala Blasters, with Jesus Jimenez opening the scoring in the 13th minute. His right-footed shot from the center of the box found the bottom left corner, assisted by 17-year-old Korou Singh, the youngest player in Kerala Blasters' squad.

With a 1-0 lead early in the game, the Tuskers looked to have the momentum on their side. Also, Korou became the youngest player to register an assist in the competition. However, the tide began to turn in the 43rd minute.

However, just before halftime, Andrie Alba struck for Hyderabad, leveling the score at 1-1. His right-footed shot from the centre of the box flew into the top left corner, assisted by Parag Shrivas.

Chhunga Hmar made a clever run down the left flank before playing a well-timed pass to Parag, who found himself in space. The fullback got the better of Ruivah Hormipam and squared the ball to Alba, who was in a good position to finish.

The second half began with tactical changes from both teams, as the coaches turned to their foreign reinforcements. Stahre brought on Noah for the Tuskers, while Thangboi Singto introduced Edmilson Correia for Hyderabad FC.

Then, in the 70th minute, a controversial moment shifted the momentum in favor of the visitors. Alba completed his brace, converting a penalty after the 19-year-old KBFC keeper Som Kumar was beaten from the spot. The penalty was awarded following a counter-attack, with the referee pointing to the spot for a handball by Hormipam. However, replays showed that it was not a handball, sparking outrage among the fans and frustration from the Tuskers.

With six minutes of added time, in the last minutes the Kerala Blasters pushed desperately for an equalizer, but the Yellow Army began to leave the stadium in disappointment. Early reactions on social media reflected the frustration, but in the end, the night belonged to Hyderabad FC.

The Indian Super League 2024-25 standings remain unchanged after today's match, but the gap has narrowed. Kerala Blasters now sit 10th with 8 points from 8 games, while Hyderabad FC are 11th with 7 points from 7 matches.

After a break, Hyderabad FC will host Odisha FC on November 25. Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters will face another Southern Derby, with Chennaiyin FC coming to Kochi on November 24.

(With PTI Inputs)