A stoppage-time winner from substitute Matias Hernandez gave Kerala Blasters a 2-1 win over visiting Odisha FC in their Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Thursday.

Matias rose above the Odisha defenders to head in the winner from Ebindas Yesudasan’s corner in the third minute of added time as the Blasters recorded their third win of the season. Matias’ goal ended a spirited challenge from Odisha, which gave many uncomfortable moments to the home side.

After a cagey start, the Blasters went ahead in the 12th minute through the first positive move and with a little luck. Kevin Yoke’s shot from outside the box deflected off an Odisha defender and landed in front of an unmarked Victor Bertomeu. The Spanish striker did well to control the ball and boot it past goalkeeper Amrinder Singh.

AS IT HAPPENED | KERALA BLASTERS VS ODISHA FC HIGHLIGHTS

Odisha rallied and put the Blasters goal under severe pressure. Rahim Ali was central to Odisha’s resurgence and the sustained pressure saw it draw level in the 27th minute. Hitesh Sharma put Rahim through, and the striker with a fine finish restored parity for his side.

The Blasters survived a nervy start in the second half, during which Rahim tested goalkeeper Arsh Anwer Shaikh with a right-footed strike.

However, the Blasters gained control with Yoke making his presence felt on the right flank. He fed substitute Ajsal, whose shot missed the mark narrowly in the 70th minute. And when it appeared the match would end in a draw, there came the match-winner from Hernandez.

Published on Apr 23, 2026