Kerala Blasters produced an impressive performance to defeat reigning champions East Bengal 2-0 in their Kalinga Super Cup Round of 16 clash in Bhubaneswar on Sunday. Goals from Jesús Jiménez and Noah Sadaoui secured the victory in what was David Català’s first match as the Blasters’ new head coach.
The Blasters started the game brightly at the Kalinga Stadium, creating several early opportunities, though striker Jiménez was initially unable to convert. East Bengal also threatened, with Richard Enrique Celis going close twice for the Kolkata giants.
The breakthrough came for Kerala Blasters in the 41st minute. Noah Sadaoui was brought down inside the box by East Bengal defender Anwar Ali, leading to a penalty. Jiménez stepped up and confidently dispatched the spot-kick to give his side a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
Noah Sadaoui, who had won the penalty, then sealed the win with a moment of brilliance in the 64th minute. The Moroccan winger skillfully beat two defenders on the right flank, cut inside onto his left foot, and unleashed a powerful strike from outside the area that flew into the top corner of the net.
The victory provides a positive start to the Super Cup campaign for the Blasters, especially after both they and East Bengal endured disappointing Indian Super League (ISL) seasons, finishing eighth and ninth respectively and missing out on the playoffs.
Kerala Blasters now advance to the quarterfinals, where they face a formidable challenge against ISL Shield and Cup double winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant on April 26th.
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