After that morale-boosting victory in Bengaluru, Kerala Blasters was just two minutes of normal time away from another win, which would have been the first at home this season. But, that was not to be, as NorthEast United struck in the dying minutes to make it 1-1.
It was a lively match in which the two teams, that have struggled in the Indian Super League, fought bitterly and created plenty of chances, but only two of them turned into goals. And one of those was an own goal.
NorthEast’s Andy Rodriguez was credited with that goal which put the host ahead with just four minutes remaining in the opening half. Fallou Ndiaye played the key role in the making of that goal, though.
AS IT HAPPENED | KBFC vs NEUFC Highlights
Following a free-kick, Karim Benarif stormed into the box and found Ndiaye, who first came up with a header and then a bicycle kick. And the ball travelled to Parthib Gogoi and then the unfortunate Rodriguez.
The Blasters continued to press hard, and even came close to increasing the lead, but never managed to. They, however, looked like claiming another three points until substitute Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia struck for the visiting side at the death.
The Blasters’ goalkeeper Arsh Shaikh had come off his post, but failed to clear the danger from Robin Yadav, another substitute. Lalbiaknia ensured the rebound would be the equaliser.
NorthEast has now seven points, and Blasters five.
Published on Apr 15, 2026
