Mumbai City defeated Kerala Blasters 4-2 to claim their second win of the Indian Super League 2024-25 season on November 3, Sunday at the Mumbai Football Arena. (Match Highlights)
The Islanders' captain, Nikolaos Karelis, set the tone early by opening the scoring in the 9th minute with a perfectly timed assist from Chhangte. He continued to drive the momentum in the second half, doubling the lead in the 55th minute by converting a penalty awarded after a foul by Kerala defender Naocha Singh.
But both the goals by Karelis were answered by Kerala Blasters quickly, with Kwame Peprah drawing a penalty that Jesus Jimenez converted to make it 2-1 in the 57th minute.
Peprah then levelled proceedings in the 71st minute, heading in a cross from Adrian Luna.
And then, the late goals from Nathan Rodrigues (75th) and captain Lallianzuala Chhangte (90th penalty) sealed the win in an action-packed match.
Unfortunatley, Peprah’s celebration cost him dearly as he nearly took off his shirt, resulting in a second yellow card and his subsequent dismissal, leaving the Tuskers with just ten men.
Just four minutes later, with the Blasters down with one, Nathan Rodrigues took advantage of a loose ball from a corner to restore Mumbai City FC's lead.
Chhangte then added a fourth goal from the penalty spot in the 90th minute, sealing the Islanders' fine victory.
With this victory, the Mumbai City now climb to 7th place in the standings and the Kerala Blasters move down to 10th.
Mumbai City will take a trip down to Chennai now for their next match agaisnt the Marina Machans on November 9. Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters will host Hyderbad FC on November 7.
(With PTI inputs)
