Thrilling showdown ends in 2-2 stalemate as Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters FC share spoils in Durand Cup clash

In a captivating clash that had fans on the edge of their seats, Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters FC battled to a 2-2 draw in a riveting encounter at the 2023 Durand Cup held at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Friday.
The match saw an early breakthrough from Kerala Blasters FC, with Justine Emmanuel (14′) finding the net, igniting the excitement. However, Bengaluru FC responded valiantly, turning the tides with goals from Edmund Lalrindika (38′) and Ashish Jha (52′) to claim the lead. Yet, the drama continued till the final whistle, as Mohammed Aimen (83′) emerged as the hero for Kerala Blasters FC with a late equalizer.
Throughout the first half, Kerala Blasters FC dominated proceedings, showcasing their attacking prowess. Captain Adrian Luna orchestrated the initial chance, delivering a cross to Emmanuel Justine, whose shot was brilliantly saved by Bengaluru FC’s goalkeeper, Amrit Gope. The Blasters persisted with relentless pressure, eventually capitalizing on a defensive lapse to break the deadlock.
Bryce Miranda capitalized on a misplaced pass, setting up Vibin Mohanan, who in turn found Emmanuel. The Nigerian forward displayed composure as he slotted the ball home near the post, earning Kerala Blasters FC a well-deserved lead. The Blasters continued to create opportunities, with Emmanuel and Farooq coming close to extending their advantage.

Bengaluru FC, however, displayed their resilience, equalizing against the run of play. Bekey Oram seized a long ball and assisted Edmund Lalrindika, who outwitted the goalkeeper with a well-executed low shot.
As the second half commenced, Kerala Blasters FC maintained their dominance, dictating the tempo of the game. However, Bengaluru FC orchestrated a surprise, taking the lead through Ashish Jha. Oram initiated a swift counter-attack, releasing Lalrindika with a perfectly placed through ball. Muhammed Saheef’s inability to clear the ball was swiftly exploited by Jha, who elegantly converted his chance.
The introduction of Ishan Pandita added vitality to Bengaluru FC’s attack, yet his header from Saurav Mandal’s cross narrowly missed the target. Kerala Blasters FC remained determined, relentlessly pursuing the equalizer. Their perseverance bore fruit when substitute Mohammed Aimen showcased his prowess, calmly slotting the ball into the far corner after receiving a pass from Adrian Luna.
The match took a dramatic turn as Ruivah Hormipam received a red card in the 85th minute, reducing Kerala Blasters FC to ten men. Despite the setback, they managed to secure the draw in a thrilling seesaw battle.
As the group stage concludes, Kerala Blasters FC will square off against the Indian Air Force, while Bengaluru FC will face Gokulam Kerala FC. Both teams have displayed exceptional spirit, leaving fans eager for more action-packed clashes in the Durand Cup.
Also Read: Unveiling India’s futsal debut: A candid conversation with player Jayesh Sutar
Also Read: Chennaiyin FC continues dominance with 2-1 win over Delhi FC, tops Group E in Durand Cup
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football
MFA / MFA Elite Corporate League
Mumbai Corporate League Begins: Milton Fernando & Joe Miranda Grace the Opener
The Mumbai Corporate League 2024-25 season commenced on Monday with Football Icon Milton Fernando and MYJ FC owner Joe Miranda gracing the occasion The clash saw last season’s Mumbai Super…
MYJ Blue Cubs League 2025: Nurturing the Future Stars of Football
MYJ Blue Cubs League 2025: Nurturing the Future Stars of Football
Mumbai City FC held to their seventh draw of the season after a goalless stalemate against East Bengal FC
Mumbai City FC were held to a goalless draw against the East Bengal FC at the Mumbai Football Arena in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 tonight. This was East…
Dream Sports Championship: RFYC, Brothers SA, MSSA and Mumbai City FC kick off campaign with wins
The second season of Dream Sports Championship kicked off with the Mumbai Leg seeing 6 teams split in two groups of 3 teams each RFYC, Brothers SA record commanding victories…
Mumbai Super League: MSP, Mumbai Ultras book final round slot
Nihal Colaco’s injury time brace helped MSP edge past Charkop while in other game, Ultras breezed past ROQs-DFA courtesy strike from Joyson, Shreyas and co. In group A, with one…
MFA / MFA Elite Premier League
Mumbai Premier League Championship Group Kicks Off with Mumbay FC, Hope United Victory
The Mumbai Premier League Championship Group stage began with a statement victory for Mumbay FC while Hope United secured a close 1-0 win New entrant Mumbay FC secured a commanding…
Jamshedpur FC displace FC Goa at second spot with a clinical 3-1 victory
Cirkovic and Siverio strikers help Jamshedpur FC defeat FC Goa by 3-1 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 tonight. Khalid Jamil became the…
Dreams Sports Championship: RFYC to lock horns with Brothers SA in regional final
Reliance Foundation Young Champs, Brothers Sports Association setup final clash in Mumbai leg of Dreams Sports Championship Mumbai, February 05, 2025: The Reliance Foundation Young Champs continued their brilliant run…
ISL matches happening in Shillong will have a positive impact on Meghalaya’s footballing culture: Mumbai City FC skipper Lallianzuala Chhangte
Mumbai City FC skipper Lallianzuala Chhangte is all set and geared up to feature in the Indian Super League (ISL)’s debut in Meghalaya with NorthEast United FC hosting the Islanders…
Mohun Bagan Super Giant qualify for ISL 2024-25 playoffs with 3-0 triumph against Punjab FC
Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated Punjab FC by 3-0 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season tonight. The Mariners became the…
Corporate Football / MFA Elite Corporate League / Trials
Bank of India announces open trial for Mumbai Corporate League Campaign
Bank of India is set to make its mark in the Mumbai Corporate League and is looking for exceptional football talent to bolster its squad. The trial is scheduled for…
India Khelo Football Workshop returns to Mumbai for its 4th Season
The Indian Khelo Football (IKF) Workshop returns to Mumbai this September, bringing with it an exceptional platform for aspiring footballers to showcase their skills and seize opportunities that could transform…
MFA / Mumbai Super League / Trials
Somaiya FC announces trials for the upcoming 2024-25 Season
Somaiya FC, having secured a commendable 5th position in the MFA Super Division last season, has announced open trials as they gear up for upcoming season. The team, known for…
VR Academy to conduct trials for 2024-25 Season
Mumbai based VR Academy has announced trials for the upcoming 2024-25 season. The club is looking for talented young players to join our esteemed academy and participate in various competitive…
MH ORANJE FC U-17 Trials for the Upcoming Season
With a proud legacy of nurturing talent and achieving excellence, Maharashtra Oranje FC has recently made waves with appearances in I-League 2, securing a remarkable runner-up position in the fiercely…
Football School of India announce trials for Young Talents
Football School of India (FSI) has announced trials for young football enthusiasts in the upcoming week of June. A golden opportunity for aspiring players to showcase their talents and potentially…
Mumbai Super League club Charkop FC to conduct open trials for upcoming Season
Calling all aspiring football stars! Charkop FC, a MFA super division club based in Charkop, Kandivali, is set to conduct Open Trials for the upcoming season. About Charkop FC: In…
Academy / Football Academy / Trials
Mumbai 42 Football Academy to conduct trials for Youth players
Newly established Mumbai 42 Football Academy will be conducting trials for young footballers in the upcoming week.
SSE BFC to conduct trials for U9 to U17 age group players
SSE BFC Soccer School will be conducting fresh trials this month for players aged below 17 to be part of their football program SSE BFC Soccer Schools is a football…
India Khelo Football Season 3 Trials for Mumbai and Thane are here
India Khelo Football (IKF) is back with Season 3 of its widely acclaimed trials with an aim to cover more than 50 cities this time around. After the resounding success…