Andrei Alba was the saviour for Hyderabad FC with two goals as the club scripted a sensational comeback from 0-1 down to win 2-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi against the Kerala Blasters in an Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 clash on Thursday.
It was the hosts who started the game with attacking intent. Fittingly, the Blasters claimed the early lead in the match through Jesus Jimenez in the 13th minute itself.
But they squandered the lead with half-time approaching as Andrei Alba scored for Hyderabad FC in the 43rd minute to take both teams into half-time on level terms. In the second half, Andrei Alba helped Hyderabad FC take the lead with what turned out to be the winning goal. This is Hyderabad FC’s second win of the ongoing ISL season. Meanwhile, for the Kerala Blasters FC, there are alarm bells ringing as they have now lost three consecutive games.
Since Kwame Peprah was suspended and Noah Sadaoui was not fully fit to start, Mikael Stahre turned to his youngsters for this match. He opted to start with two prodigious talents – Mohammed Aimen and Korou Singh on either flank and the wingers paid their coach’s faith with a sensational start. Aimen was the driving force for the hosts in the initial quarter. His direct approach and relentless running caused many problems for Hyderabad FC’s backline.
Korou Singh, the youngest player at 17 years and 340 days to feature in the ISL for Kerala Blasters and the third-youngest overall, was one of the brightest sparks for the Blasters, showing great maturity from counter-attacks on the wings. It was Korou who assisted Blasters’ goal as he became the youngest player to record an assist in the competition.
Focus on Hyderabad FC’s Andrei Alba
The Brazilian midfielder was a workhorse for Hyderabad on the night. Alba scored two crucial goals while also recording three clearances and two interceptions. He completed 24 out of his 37 attempted passes.
What next for both teams?
Kerala Blasters will welcome Chennaiyin FC on November 24 after the international break. On the other hand, Hyderabad FC will lock horns against Odisha FC at home on November 25.
