Kochi, Apr 23 (PTI) Substitute Matias Hernandez struck deep into stoppage time as Kerala Blasters FC edged Odisha FC 2-1 in the Indian Super League 2025-26, here on Thursday.
The win lifts Kerala to ninth with 11 points from 11 matches, while Odisha remain 13th with six from eight.
Víctor Bertomeu was named Player of the Match.
Kerala started brightly, with Kévin Yoke a constant threat down the left.
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when a blocked effort fell kindly for Bertomeu, who controlled and finished from close range.
Odisha responded well and equalised in the 27th minute, Rahim Ali combining neatly with Hitesh Sharma before placing a composed finish into the bottom corner.
Both sides traded chances thereafter.
Francisco Feuillassier and Nihal Sudheesh went close for Kerala, while Rahim continued to trouble on the counter.
Odisha began the second half on the front foot, forcing Arsh Anwer Shaikh into a series of saves, with Aibanbha Dohling and Vibin Mohanan holding firm in defence.
Clear chances were limited as the game wore on, with Yoke dictating Kerala’s play and Odisha threatening through quick transitions.
The decisive moment arrived in the 90+3rd minute.
From a corner, Ebindas Y delivered a precise cross and Hernández rose to head home the winner.
Kerala had a late goal ruled out for offside, while Odisha’s final effort drifted wide, as the hosts held on for three points to jump to ninth in the 14-team standings with their third win from 11 matches.
Odisha remained at 13th with a solitary win from eight matches. PTI TAP AM AM
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