ISL 2016 | History repeats itself as Atletico de Kolkata emerge as Champions

Atletico de Kolkata had defeated Kerala Blasters with a late winner to emerge champions in the inaugural edition in 2014 and two years later they left Kerala Blasters stunned in front of their packed home stadium to pocket the title for the second time in three years.

Kerala Blasters converted their penalties through Antonio German, Kervens Belfort, and Mohammed Rafique, while Elhadji Ndoye shot wide and captain Cedric Hengbart saw his final penalty being saved by the legs of goalkeeper Debjit Majumder.

The grand finale saw both teams maintaining a high tempo in the opening 45 minutes which meant they had enough chances to seize the initiative.

Kerala Blasters had the first look at the rival goal in 10th minute when Helder Postiga lost the ball in midfield and Kervens Belfort launched a quick counter-attack. He got past his marker and pushed the ball to Rafi who tried to finish it off but his shot was blocked by a sliding rival defender.

Kerala were on the back-foot when their marquee player Aaron Hughes had to be substituted with an injury and it was clear they were missing his talismanic presence in central defence. In the 44th minute, his presence was badly missed as Atletico de Kolkata fought back and scored the equaliser also through a corner-kick as Henrique Sereno towered over everyone else to head a Sameehg Doutie corner.

In the second session, the teams were watchful not to press too many men forward and as a result, there were not many chances to pounce upon. 

The teams failed to break the deadlock even in extra time forcing the contest to be decided on penalties where Atletico de Kolkata proved to be better shooters.