ISL 2023-24: In an exciting clash at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kerala Blasters continued their impressive run by defeating home favorites East Bengal 2-1 in an ISL-10 fixture. Daisuke Sakai and Dimitrios Diamantakos found the net in each half for the Blasters, while Cleiton Silva, who had earlier missed two penalties, managed to convert one late in injury time to provide a consolation for the hosts. The Blasters had to navigate the final 11 minutes and added time with 10 men, as Diamantakos was shown a red card in the 89th minute for removing his shirt after scoring.
Kerala Blasters displayed the right intent and organization in the first half, earning their lead when Daisuke Sakai capitalized on a swift counter-attack. Adrian Luna delivered a precise through pass to the Japanese striker, who skillfully outwitted his marker with a step-over before slotting the ball past East Bengal’s goalkeeper, Prabhsukhan Singh Gill.
East Bengal showed promise in the second half but failed to find the equalizer, even after two opportunities from the penalty spot, both denied by the Blasters’ goalkeeper, Sachin Suresh. Suresh’s first save was nullified due to encroachment, but he exhibited anticipation once more to thwart Cleiton’s second attempt. Diamantakos sealed the victory for the Blasters with a goal in the 88th minute.
