ISL | Chennaiyin finally gets a win under its belt at Blasters’ expense

The agonising wait is over for Chennaiyin FC. It has finally scored a win this season in the ISL.

For its rival on Saturday night, Kerala Blasters ,though, the nightmare just continues. The 0-1 defeat at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium was its fourth in as many matches for the Kochi men.

In an ISL that has no return leg fixtures, that is a frightening position to be in. They have Mohammedan Sporting for company, though.

Imran Khan of Chennaiyin FC celebrates after scoring against Kerala Blasters FC in the Indian Super League football match at Kochi on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
| Photo Credit:
R.K. Nithin

Coach David Catala, on the eve of this match, had expressed confidence that the goals would come. Sadly for his team, they never did. In fact, Blasters have been able to score just one goal this season.

Not that Chennaiyin is on a scoring spree. The goal it scored on this night is only its second of the season.

That goal came off a powerful strike from Imran Khan’s left foot late in the opening half; it was firm enough to beat a deflection off the Blasters’ defence.

Earlier, both sides had opportunities to score, as the match began with Chennaiyin looking keener to attack, but the host then regrouped and counterattacked.

Chennaiyin’s goal, in fact came shortly after Blasters wasted a couple of corner kicks in succession. Poor finishing has indeed been the biggest of Blasters’ many problems this season.

It became even more obvious in the second half. Chances of an equaliser were missed consistently. A fine show under the bar by Chennaiyin’s Mohammad Nawaz merits mention, though.

The result: Kerala Blasters 0 lost to Chennaiyin FC 1 (Imran Khan 42).