ISL 2026: Imran Khan Strike Hands Chennaiyin FC First Win as Kerala Blasters’ Struggles Continue

Image: AIFF

Imran Khan’s first-half goal proved decisive as Chennaiyin FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Kerala Blasters FC in the Indian Super League 2025–26 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Saturday.

The win marked Chennaiyin’s first victory of the season and lifted them provisionally to eighth place in the table with four points from four matches. For Kerala Blasters, the defeat extended a difficult start to the campaign, leaving them still searching for their first points and rooted to the bottom of the standings.

Chennaiyin goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz delivered an outstanding performance between the posts and was deservedly named Player of the Match.

Chennaiyin Start Brightly

Kerala Blasters head coach David Català made five changes to his starting eleven following their previous defeat, introducing Muhammad Ajsal, Aibanbha Dohling, Bikash Yumnam, Nihal Sudeesh and RV Hormipam.

Chennaiyin FC head coach Clifford Miranda opted for a more stable approach, making just one change to the side, with Imran Khan replacing Irfan Yadwad on the wing.

The visitors began the match with greater urgency and nearly opened the scoring early. Imran Khan struck the post after Kerala’s defence failed to clear a cross from Farukh Choudhary. Soon after, Maheson Singh tested Arsh Anwer Shaikh with a sharp effort at the near post following a neat pass from Imran.

Nawaz Keeps Blasters at Bay

Kerala Blasters gradually grew into the contest and began to create opportunities of their own. Muhammad Ajsal, Víctor Bertomeu and Vibin Mohanan all had attempts on goal, but Chennaiyin goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz remained composed, dealing comfortably with the efforts.

Despite Kerala enjoying more possession in phases of the first half, it was Chennaiyin who struck the breakthrough.

Imran Makes the Difference

Three minutes before the interval, Alberto Noguera threaded a clever pass into the path of Imran Khan. The winger attempted to curl the ball into the far corner, but the effort took a heavy deflection off RV Hormipam and rolled past Arsh Anwer Shaikh into the net.

The goal gave Chennaiyin FC a valuable lead going into the break.

Blasters Push After the Break

Kerala Blasters returned for the second half with greater attacking intent. Kevin Yoke and Nihal Sudeesh became increasingly influential on the wings, while Muhammad Ajsal found spaces between the lines to orchestrate attacks.

The hosts created several promising chances in their search for an equaliser. Bertomeu came closest when he was denied twice in quick succession by an excellent double save from Nawaz.

Shortly afterwards, Kevin Yoke delivered a precise cut-back to Nihal Sudeesh inside the box, but the winger’s shot crashed against the crossbar. The pair combined again moments later, with Yoke’s cross narrowly evading Nihal’s diving header.

Chennaiyin Hold On

As the match progressed, Kerala Blasters continued to dominate possession but lacked the finishing touch in front of goal. Substitute Ebindas Yesudasan added fresh energy in midfield and helped create further openings, but Chennaiyin’s defence remained disciplined.

Despite the late pressure from the home side, Chennaiyin held firm to protect their slender lead and secure an important away victory.

The result also marked Chennaiyin FC’s first win in Kochi in six years, while Kerala Blasters were left to reflect on another frustrating night in front of goal.