ISL 2024-25: Skipper Adrian Luna shines in Kerala Blasters' 3-0 comeback win over Mohammedan SC
Xtra Time Web Desk: Skipper Adrian Luna delivered a masterclass as Kerala Blasters bounced back to winning ways with a commanding 3-0 triumph over Mohammedan SC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Sunday evening, 22nd December.
The Uruguayan maestro opened the scoring in spectacular fashion, netting an Olympico in the 62nd minute—an emblem of his brilliance and determination. Coming off a turbulent phase marked by the dismissal of coach Mikael Stahre and his staff, the Blasters, under interim coaches TG Purushothaman and Tomasz Tchórz, needed a victory to breathe life into their campaign.
First-Half Frustrations
The Blasters dominated possession in the first half but struggled to convert opportunities into goals. A well-crafted move saw Luna find Noah Sadaoui on the left flank, whose precise cross set up Kwame Peprah, only for the forward’s header to be thwarted by the Mohammedan SC goalkeeper.
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As the half drew to a close, Kerala launched a swift counterattack, but their lack of clinical finishing left the scoreline unchanged at the break.
Second-Half Surge
The breakthrough finally came in the 62nd minute when Luna’s corner kick curved directly into the net, aided by a misjudgment from the goalkeeper. The Manjapadda, Kerala’s passionate fanbase, erupted in celebration as their skipper delivered under pressure.
Sadaoui doubled the advantage in the 80th minute, connecting with a pinpoint cross from Thingujam Korou Singh. Left unmarked, the forward made no mistake, heading home to put the game beyond the visitors’ reach.
With the crowd of over 15,000 cheering every tackle and pass, the Blasters seemed to grow in confidence. Their dominance culminated in a third goal in the dying moments. Luna once again orchestrated the play, delivering a sublime cross from the left flank for substitute Alexandra Serge Coeff, who slotted it in to seal a comprehensive win.
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Turning Point
This victory not only lifted Kerala Blasters from their slump but also showcased their resilience in adversity. With Luna leading by example, the team proved they could rise to the occasion and deliver when it mattered most.
Final Score: Kerala Blasters 3–0 Mohammedan SC
