Chennai: Kerala Blasters kept their playoff hopes alive in the Indian Super League (ISL) with a commanding 3-1 victory over Chennaiyin FC at their home ground. The Blasters dominated the match, with goals from Jesús Jiménez, Korou Singh, and Kwame Peprah ensuring a comfortable win. Chennaiyin FC’s lone goal came in injury time, courtesy of Vincy Barretto.

The Blasters made a stunning start, taking the lead in just the third minute of the match. Jesús Jiménez’s brilliant move sent the ball into the Chennaiyin net, leaving goalkeeper Nawaz with no chance. Chennaiyin's defensive mistake was swiftly exploited by Kerala, giving them a 1-0 advantage.

The second goal came just before halftime in the third minute of added time. With five Chennaiyin players stationed in the box, Korou Singh capitalised on a pass from Adrien Luna. Instead of shooting himself, Kwame Peprah passed to Luna, who then sent the ball to Korou. Singh calmly directed the ball to the left corner of the box to double the Blasters’ lead (2-0).

In the second half, the Blasters extended their advantage with a third goal in the 56th minute. A smooth build-up down the left flank saw Luna pass to Ghanaian forward Kwame Peprah, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net, putting Kerala firmly in control (3-0). Chennaiyin’s Vincy Barretto gave the home crowd a brief moment of hope by scoring a late goal in injury time (3-1).

Jiménez’s opening goal became the fastest goal of the season for Kerala Blasters in the ISL. In the 36th minute, Chennaiyin’s Wilmar Jordan was shown a red card for a foul on Blasters' Miloš Drinčić, reducing the hosts to ten men for the remainder of the match.

This win was crucial for Kerala Blasters, as a loss would have meant the end of their playoff ambitions. Despite Chennaiyin’s defensive efforts, the Blasters capitalised on their opportunities with aggressive attacks, particularly in the first half. Had it not been for some excellent saves by Chennaiyin goalkeeper Nawaz, the Blasters’ scoreline could have been even more emphatic. Kerala Blasters' goalkeeper Sachin also made crucial saves to maintain their lead.

The victory has given Kerala Blasters a vital chance to keep their playoff hopes alive, with the team displaying resilience and clinical finishing when it mattered most.