(Football news) A comfortable 2-0 victory over Odisha FC ensured the Yellow Army progressed on top of the Indian Super League table at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in Vasco. First half goals from Nishu Kumar (28th) and Harmanjot Khabra (40th) were enough to secure the three points for Kerala Blasters who now have 20 points from 11 games while Odisha FC are in eighth place, with 13 points from 10 matches.

The Manjappada showed their intent right from kick off, passing the ball and trying to create opportunities but it was Odisha FC who had the first real chance in the 26th minute when Javi Hernandez forced a good save from Prabhsukhan Gill against the run of play. However, just when it seemed that the momentum may have shifted, Kerala Blasters scored the opening goal two minutes later after some individual brilliance from Nishu Kumar sent a curling effort into the top corner after being set up by Adrian Luna.

Kerala Blasters then went on to double their advantage five minutes from half-time with Luna yet again involved in the thick of things, providing the assist to Hermanjot Khabra who headed home from a corner. Odisha FC attempted to mount a comeback in the second half and Jonathas Cristian had the opportunity to pull a goal back but was denied by Gill at the hour mark. Jonathas had another opportunity when Jerry Mawihmingthanga sent an inviting ball in the box but the header failed to hit the target. Javi also had a freekick from a dangerous position but it sailed over the crossbar.

League leaders Kerala Blasters will next face reigning champions Mumbai City FC on Sunday, 16th January at the Tilak Maidan while Odisha FC will take on NorthEast United on Tuesday, 18th January at the Fatorda Stadium.

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