Punjab FC Stuns Kerala Blasters in ISL Opener

Punjab FC Spoils Kerala Blasters' Thiruvonam Day Celebrations with 2-1 Victory

In a thrilling Indian Super League (ISL) opener, Punjab FC stunned the home crowd at the Nehru Stadium in Kochi, Kerala, by defeating Kerala Blasters FC 2-1 on Sunday.

The match, which was largely a midfield battle for the majority of the game, came to life in the final seven minutes. Slovenian forward Luka Majcen, who came on as a substitute in the 67th minute, proved to be the catalyst for Punjab's victory.

With just four minutes remaining, Majcen converted a penalty after Kerala defender Saheef brought down Punjab's Leon Augustine in the box. The goal gave Punjab a crucial lead.

However, the Blasters refused to go down without a fight. In the second minute of injury time, seasoned defender Pritam Kotal curled in a beautiful long-ranger from the right, which was headed home by new forward Jesus Nunez. The equalizer sent the home fans into a frenzy.

But Punjab had the last laugh. Three minutes later, Majcen delivered a pinpoint cross to Filip Mrzijak on the right. The Croatian forward produced a sliding shot that found the back of the net, securing a dramatic victory for Punjab.

The result was a bitter disappointment for the Blasters, who were playing their first match under new head coach Ivan Vukomanovic. The Serbian tactician had made several changes to the team, including the omission of star midfielder Adrian Luna, who was reportedly unwell.

Punjab, on the other hand, will be delighted with their start to the season. The victory will give them confidence as they look to improve on their eighth-place finish last year.

Tags: #IndianSuperLeague, #KeralaBlasters, #PunjabFC, #LukaMajcen, #FilipMrzijak