ISL: Kerala Blasters held to 1-1 draw by NorthEast United FC

The Indian Super League (ISL) witnessed an intense clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi as Kerala Blasters and NorthEast United FC shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw. The match kept fans on edge with missed opportunities, an own goal, and a late equaliser.
The game began with Kerala Blasters pressing forward, as Andy Rodriguez created the first real chance but failed to keep his shot on target. Soon after, Freddy Lallawmawma tried his luck, but fortune did not favour him either. Both sides exchanged attacking moves, but neither could break the deadlock in the opening stages.
Kerala Blasters eventually took the lead in dramatic fashion when Andy Rodriguez’s own goal handed the hosts a crucial advantage. Despite the setback, NorthEast United continued to fight back. In the second half, Jairo Samperio came close to doubling the lead, but his effort was brilliantly denied by goalkeeper Arsh Shaikh in the 56th minute.
The Highlanders, refusing to give up, kept pushing for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off late in the game when Lalrinzuala struck from close range in the 88th minute, ensuring NorthEast United walked away with a point. The late goal silenced the home crowd and highlighted the visitors’ resilience.
The draw means Kerala Blasters missed an opportunity to secure full points at home, while NorthEast United showcased their fighting spirit with a well-earned comeback. Both teams will now look to build on this result as the ISL season progresses, with fans anticipating more thrilling encounters ahead.