A dramatic stoppage-time header from substitute Matias Hernandez sealed a 2-1 victory for Kerala Blasters FC against Odisha FC in their Indian Super League 2025-26 clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Thursday.

Just when the contest seemed destined to end in a stalemate, Hernandez rose above a crowded penalty area in the third minute of added time to head home from Ebindas Yesudasan’s corner. The late goal sparked celebrations among the home fans and secured the Blasters’ third win of the campaign.

The match began cautiously, with both sides probing for openings. Kerala Blasters broke the deadlock in the 12th minute with a move that combined intent and fortune. Kevin Yoke unleashed a long-range effort that deflected off an Odisha defender, falling kindly to Victor Bertomeu. The striker kept his composure, controlling the ball before firing it past goalkeeper Amrinder Singh.

Odisha responded strongly, gradually taking control of proceedings. Their persistence paid off in the 27th minute when Hitesh Sharma threaded a precise pass to Rahim Ali. The forward finished confidently to level the score, capping a period of sustained pressure that troubled the home defence.

The second half saw Odisha continue to threaten, with Rahim testing goalkeeper Arsh Anwer Shaikh early on. Kerala Blasters, however, gradually regained control, particularly through Yoke’s influence on the right flank.

One of the key chances came in the 70th minute when Yoke set up substitute Ajsal, whose attempt narrowly missed the target. As time ticked away and the match appeared headed for a draw, the decisive moment arrived.

Yesudasan’s well-delivered corner found Hernandez, who timed his leap perfectly to head the ball into the net, ending Odisha’s resilient challenge.

The result lifts Kerala Blasters’ momentum in the league, while Odisha will reflect on missed opportunities after pushing the hosts to the brink in an engaging contest.