In a display of sheer determination and tactical brilliance, Kerala Blasters staged a remarkable second-half comeback to secure their place in the Super Cup semifinals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Delhi FC at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
Early Setback for the Blasters
The match began on a concerning note for the Kerala-based franchise as Delhi FC drew first blood in the 28th minute. An unfortunate defensive lapse allowed Delhi to capitalize, putting the Blasters on the back foot early in the crucial quarterfinal encounter.
Second-Half Resurgence
Kerala Blasters emerged from the halftime break with renewed vigor and purpose. The equalizer came in the 57th minute when Danish Farooq rose magnificently to head home a perfectly delivered corner, sending the Blasters faithful into raptures.
The momentum had clearly shifted, and Kerala continued to press forward with increasing confidence. Their persistence paid dividends in the 72nd minute when the dynamic Diamantakos found the back of the net, completing the turnaround and putting his team in the driver's seat.
Defensive Resilience Seals the Victory
Despite Delhi FC's desperate attempts to find an equalizer in the dying moments of the match, Kerala's defense stood firm. The backline, marshaled brilliantly throughout the second half, ensured there would be no late drama as they protected their slender lead until the final whistle.
Road to Semifinals
This crucial victory marks Kerala Blasters' successful progression to the Super Cup semifinals, where they now await their next opponent. The team's ability to overcome adversity and secure victory under pressure demonstrates their growing maturity and championship mentality.
The performance particularly highlighted the squad's depth and the strategic acumen of the coaching staff, who made crucial adjustments at halftime that ultimately changed the course of the match.
