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Early team news ahead of #KBFCCFC

Posted on by KBFC Admin Sporthood

The spotlight falls on the players who have returned to training after recovering from their respective injuries. With the Blasters looking to bounce back, and the availability of key players like Ishan, Aiban, Sachin and Prabir will boost Mikael’s options ahead of the game against Chennai tonight.

Ishan Pandita

Centre-forward Ishan Pandita has yet to feature in this ISL season but made a single appearance in the Durand Cup earlier this year. Known for his clinical finishing and sharp instincts, Ishan’s inclusion in the upcoming fixture can be eagerly anticipated. His ability to penetrate defensive walls like those of the Marina Machans’ stalwarts Renthlei and Desai will be key in unlocking the opposition’s backline.

Prabir Das

Having already appeared in three matches this season, Prabir has been a consistent presence on the right flank. His defensive acumen and ability to support attacks make him a vital asset for the Blasters. As the team looks to strengthen its defensive shape, Prabir’s experience and versatility will play a significant role in ensuring stability at the back. Known for his reliability down the right flank, Prabir has shown his ability time and again to support both defence and attack, making him a crucial part of the squad.

Aiban Dohling

After solid performances against Punjab FC and East Bengal FC earlier this season, Aiban had been sidelined with a knee injury. However, his return is expected to bolster the Blasters’ defence. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions will be essential in neutralising CFC’s attacking threats. His appearance to the lineup could be a significant strength for the Blasters’ defence, as his positional awareness and tackling are key to handling high-pressure situations.

Sachin Suresh

Sachin Suresh, the Blasters’ goalkeeper, has made four appearances this season, conceding six goals. Despite facing challenges, Sachin has shown glimpses of his potential with crucial saves. As he recovers from injury, Sachin is determined to return stronger and provide a dependable last line of defence.

What does this mean for Mikael Stahre?

The return of players like Aibanbha Dohling and Ishan Pandita is expected to address some of these issues. Additionally, Prabir Das and Sachin Suresh can also play pivotal roles as the team aims to regain its form in this crucial stage of the competition.

How to Watch & Follow KBFC vs CFC

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Kerala Blasters FC host Southern rivals Chennaiyin FC tonight at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium. The Blasters will be highly motivated to bounce back and claim all three points.

TEAM NEWS:

Kerala Blasters FC:

The Blasters come into this game determined to bounce back from a tough run of three consecutive losses. Despite their recent struggles, the Blasters have shown glimpses of brilliance, with Spanish forward Jesus Jimenez leading the attack. His five consecutive goals in the last five fixtures underline his reliability in front of goal.

Adding versatility to the squad is young Korou Singh, who recorded an assist in the Blasters’ last home encounter and continues to impress with his fearless performances. However, head coach Mikael Stahre has expressed concerns over defensive lapses and the inability to maintain momentum.

A solid performance on both ends of the pitch will be essential if the Blasters hope to turn the tide.

Chennaiyin FC:

Chennaiyin FC have been a mixed bag this season, sitting fourth in the standings with several promising performances. Their recent 1-1 draw against Mumbai City FC showcased their resilience. Under the guidance of Owen Coyle, the Marina Machans have thrived in away fixtures, defeating teams like Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC.

Their ability to disrupt opponents with quick transitions and an aggressive approach will challenge the Blasters.

Key players like Nathan Rodrigues and Vincy Barretto are expected to be central to Chennaiyin’s strategy, making this an exciting tactical battle.

KEY PLAYERS:

Jesus Jimenez: The Spanish striker has showcased exceptional form this season, netting five goals for the team. His calmness under pressure and knack for finding space make him a persistent danger to opposing defenses.

Korou Singh: The 17-year-old prodigy has already made history by becoming the youngest player in ISL history to register an assist. His pace, creativity, and fearless approach add a new dimension to the Blasters’ attack.

Vibin Mohanan: Returning from international duty, Vibin will bring confidence and composure to the midfield. His experience with the National Team squad during the recent international break adds to his readiness to make a difference in this crucial fixture.

HOW TO WATCH:

Catch the live action on Sports18, JioCinema, and OneFootball at 7:30 PM IST. For live updates, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes moments, follow Kerala Blasters FC on our official social media channels.

Match Summary: KBFC vs HFC

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In a gripping encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Hyderabad FC staged a second-half comeback to edge past Kerala Blasters 2-1, with Alba scoring twice to secure the victory.

First Half – A Promising Start and Early Lead:

The game began intensely as Kerala Blasters created early chances, with Sandeep Singh nearly scoring in the second minute, only for his shot to deflect off the post. The hosts kept up the pressure, and their persistence paid off in the 13th minute. Korou Singh showcased impressive footwork on the wing, beating his marker and delivering a precise pass to Jesus Jimenez, who slotted it past Jongte to give the Blasters a 1-0 lead.

Hyderabad FC responded strongly, with Alba leading their attack. In the 43rd minute, Parag Shrivas sent in a beautifully timed cross to Alba, who finished with a powerful side-footed shot to level the score at 1-1 just before halftime. Both teams went into the break with everything to play for.

Second Half – Penalty Seals Hyderabad’s Comeback:

Both teams pushed hard for that decisive breakthrough immediately in the second half. In the 68th minute, the referee awarded Hyderabad a penalty after a contentious handball call on Hormipam. Alba stepped up and converted the spot-kick, securing his brace and giving Hyderabad a 2-1 lead.

Kerala Blasters fought back, with substitutes Noah Sadaoui and Rahul KP adding fresh perspective to our attack. Despite creating several promising opportunities, Hyderabad’s defence, held firm. Parag’s crucial interception in the 89th minute denied Noah a clear scoring chance, preserving Hyderabad’s lead. The Blasters’ best efforts couldn’t alter the outcome, as Hyderabad FC emerged victorious and claimed all three points.

Kerala Blasters will look to bounce back from this narrow defeat when they face Chennaiyin FC in their next fixture. Set to take place on November 24th at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi.

Full-time: Kerala Blasters FC 1-2 Hyderabad FC

Kerala Blasters Starting XI:

Som Kumar (GK), Adrian Luna (C), Milos Drincic, Alexandre Coeff, Sandeep Singh, Vibin Mohanan, Jesus Jiménez, Huidrom Naocha Singh, Hormipam Ruivah, Korou Singh, Mohammed Aimen

Goals:

13’ Jesus Jimenez (KBFC)

Substitutions:

33’ Mohammed Aimen ➡️ Freddy Lallawmawma
45’ Alexander Coeff ➡️ Noah Sadoui
55’ Korou Singh ➡️ Rahul KP
77’ Hormipam Ruivah ➡️ Pritam Kotal
77’ Sandeep Singh ➡️ Muhammed Saheef

How to Watch & Follow KBFC vs HFC

Posted on by KBFC Admin Sporthood

Coming off a challenging 4-2 defeat to Mumbai City FC, the Blasters will look to regroup and leverage their home advantage to secure valuable points. Meanwhile, Hyderabad FC arrives equally motivated, aiming to overcome recent setbacks.

TEAM NEWS:

Kerala Blasters FC: Head Coach Mikael Stahre has stressed the need for defensive discipline and composure, especially during critical phases of the game. With key players returning to the lineup and renewed focus, the Blasters are set to put on a determined performance and make a powerful statement for their home supporters.

Hyderabad FC: HFC comes into this fixture off a 2-0 defeat to Mohun Bagan SG and will be fielding a lineup that could pose challenges for Kerala Blasters. Players like Lenny Rodrigues, who came close to narrowing the deficit in the previous game, will be key in adding to Hyderabad’s attacking efforts.

The Blasters’ backline will need to be prepared for a motivated Hyderabad side aiming to turn their fortunes around.

Key Players to Watch:

Jesus Jimenez: Jimenez has proven to be a reliable goal-scorer for Kerala Blasters. His finishing skills and movement in the box make him a constant threat. Hyderabad’s defence will need to stay vigilant to contain his influence.

Adrian Luna: As a creative force in midfield, Luna’s vision and passing accuracy are central to Kerala’s playmaking. His ability to create scoring chances and control the game tempo makes him one of Kerala’s most valuable assets.

How to Watch:

Catch the live action on Sports18, JioCinema, and OneFootball at 7:30 PM IST.

For live updates, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes moments, follow Kerala Blasters FC on our official social media channels.

Match Report: MCFC vs KBFC

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In a hard-fought battle at the Mumbai Football Arena, the Blasters came up short with a 4-2 loss against the Islanders.


First Half

Mumbai City began the game on the front foot, taking an early lead at 1-0. The first half was marked by a few close calls, with both teams exchanging possession and creating chances.

Kerala Blasters struggled to break through Mumbai’s defensive line but looked dangerous in moments, especially when Jimenez got into promising positions. However, as the whistle blew for halftime, Mumbai maintained their narrow lead.


Second Half


The second half burst into life with both teams ramping up their attacking play. The pace picked up in the 55th minute when Mumbai doubled their lead through a well-taken penalty by Karelis. Shortly after, Blaster’s won a penalty of their own, with Jimenez coolly converting to make it 2-1, bringing Kerala Blasters back into contention.


In a dramatic twist, Kerala Blasters equalised at 2-2 in the 71st minute with a powerful header by Peprah. However, the forward’s celebration led to a second yellow card, reducing the Blasters to ten men. This proved to be a pivotal moment in the match, as Mumbai City quickly capitalised on their advantage.

Just minutes later, Nathan Rodrigues volleyed home to make it 3-2, reclaiming the lead for Mumbai.
In the closing minutes, Mumbai’s captain Chhangte sealed the win with a perfectly executed penalty, bringing the score to 4-2 in the 90th minute.

Despite the Blasters’ late effort to mount a comeback, Mumbai’s defence held firm, and they controlled possession until the final whistle.

Match Details:

Full-time: Mumbai City FC 4-2 Kerala Blasters FC


Kerala Blasters Starting XI:

Som Kumar (GK), Adrian Luna (C), Pritam Kotal, Alexandre Coeff, Sandeep Singh, Vibin Mohanan, Jesus Jiménez, Huidrom Naocha Singh, Hormipam Ruivah, Kwame Peprah, Danish Farooq.

Goals:

57’ Jesus Jiménez
71’ Kwame Peprah

Substitutions:

45’ Danish Farooq➡ Freddy Lallawmawma
45’ Sandeep Singh➡ Korou Singh
85’ Alexander Coeff ➡ Milos Drincic

How to watch & follow MCFC vs KBFC

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The Blasters will aim to secure three crucial points on the road against Mumbai City FC and build momentum going further into the season.

TEAM NEWS:

Kerala Blasters FC:

Following the recent home setback against Bengaluru FC, Head Coach Mikael Stahre has stressed the importance of a tighter defence and clinical finishing in the final third. With key players in form and a unified approach, the Blasters are ready to perform against MCFC.

Mumbai City FC:

The Islanders enter this game after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Odisha FC at home. Their attack, led by key players like Nikolaos Karelis, Jon Toral, Lallianzuala Chhangte, and Noufal PN, is expected to challenge Kerala’s backline with their creativity and finishing ability.

Key Players to Watch:

Kwame Peprah:
Starting in the last game against Bengaluru, Peprah’s impact was evident throughout the 90 minutes, with his sharp positioning and acceleration consistently posing threats to the opposition. His form and focus make him a key figure in Kerala’s attacking lineup.

Jesus Jimenez:
With precision and finishing finesse, Jimenez has become a reliable goal-scorer for Kerala Blasters. His movement and ability to create space in the box have been instrumental, making him a player that the Mumbai defence will need to keep a close eye on.

Adrian Luna:
A creative force in Kerala’s midfield, Luna’s vision and ball control drive much of Kerala’s offensive play. While set-pieces haven’t been his strongest area this season, his ability to maneuver through tight spaces and set up teammates has kept opponents on edge, making him a vital element of the team’s strategy.

Naocha Singh:
Solidifying Kerala’s backline, Naocha Singh has displayed impressive resilience, agility, and awareness, breaking up opposition plays with disciplined defensive work. His interceptive ability and composure make him a dependable figure in defence.

How To Watch The Game:

Catch all the live action on Sports18, JioCinema, and OneFootball at 7:30 PM IST. For real-time updates, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes coverage, follow Kerala Blasters FC on our official social media channels.

The Yellow Standard

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Kerala Blasters FC introduced its first-ever digital match day program magazine, The Yellow Standard. With a vision to bring the fans closer to the club, the magazine is packed with exclusive contents, giving readers an authentic glimpse into KBFC, offering them a deeper connection with the players, the coaches, and the club’s ethos.

It celebrates the Blasters spirit, encapsulating the pride, intensity, and unity that make Kerala Blasters FC more than just a team—it’s a community.

Bringing the fans closer to the Club

This digital magazine isn’t merely a summary of the match content rather, it’s a bridge that connects the club to its vast fan base on a deeper level. With insights from the head coach Mikael Stahre and personal reflections from captain Adrian Luna, fans can see the game through the eyes of the people who live in it.

From strategic reviews of matches, like the rivalry of the yellows and the blues, to stories of emerging talents in the Blasters Academy, the magazine covers the journey, passion, and determination that fuel every performance. Fans will be taken behind the scenes and introduced to the personalities and philosophies that shape every decision and every game.

Filled with engaging visuals, strategic insights, and exclusive voices, the magazine creates an immersive experience where readers don’t just read about the club—they feel a part of its story.

A Glimpse into the Magazine

The Yellow Standard goes beyond match stats, diving into the spirit of Kerala Blasters FC with exclusive insights from players and coaches. One of the highlights of this issue is head coach Mikael Stahre sharing his vision and strategy for the club. Captain Adrián Luna emphasises the team’s pride, passion, and deep bond with its loyal fanbase, the “12th man” driving each game.

In-depth previews spotlight key player duels, like Luna’s face-off with Bengaluru’s Alberto Noguera, allowing fans to understand pivotal match moments. Defender Naocha Singh’s journey and the club’s youth academy, developing young talents like Korou Singh and Ebindas, also reflect the Blasters’ commitment to excellence and legacy-building in Kerala football.

KBFC Partners Highlight

Off the field, the club’s new five-year partnership with FREEMANS underscores its dedication to quality and innovation. In addition, senior leaders provide insights into the club’s global growth strategy, from enhancing fan engagement to expanding sponsorships. The Yellow Standard offers fans a true insider’s look into the journey, ambitions, and future of Kerala Blasters FC.

A New Era of Engagement

With the release of this digital magazine, Kerala Blasters FC takes a step forward in fan engagement, providing a resource that’s both informative and inspiring. Should the magazine see strong engagement and interest from fans, the club aims to extend its reach by producing physical copies, giving fans a tangible piece of the Blasters’ legacy to cherish.

Match Review: KBFC vs BFC

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In a high-stakes encounter at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi. BFC beat KBFC 3-1 Despite Kerala’s determined play, Bengaluru’s efficient finishing secured the 3 points.

First Half – Kerala Blasters Level Before Halftime

The Blasters started with intensity, and Jiménez tested Bengaluru’s defence early. Bengaluru, however, quickly regained control, and in the 19th minute, Pereyra Diaz found the net with a clinical finish to give Bengaluru a 1-0 lead. Kerala Blasters responded with a series of counter-attacks, spearheaded by Adrian Luna. Just before halftime, Kerala was awarded a penalty following a foul in the box. Jiménez converted confidently, equalising the score at 1-1 as both teams headed to the break.

Second Half

Bengaluru ramped up the tempo in the second half. In the 57th minute, Mendez capitalised on a defensive error, putting Bengaluru ahead 2-1. Kerala Blasters made tactical changes to intensify their attack, with Coach Stahre introducing Rahul KP in the 75th minute. Despite a close attempt in the 87th minute, Kerala couldn’t find an equaliser.

Bengaluru secured their lead in added time, with Mendez scoring his second goal to make it 3-1. Kerala had a late chance, with Rahul’s strike narrowly missing the target. Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made a crucial save to deny the Blasters any further scoring opportunities.

Ultimately, Bengaluru FC’s precision in front of goal proved decisive, sealing a 3-1 victory over Kerala Blasters FC. Kerala will aim to regroup ahead of their away game against Mumbai City FC on November 3rd at Mumbai Football Arena.

Match Details

Kerala Blasters Starting XI:

Som Kumar (GK), Pritam Kotal, Hormipam Ruivah, Naocha Singh, Sandeep Singh, Alexandre Coeff, Vibin Mohanan, Danish Farooq, Adrian Luna (C), Jesus Jiménez, Kwame Peprah

Full-time Score:

Bengaluru FC 3-1 Kerala Blasters FC

Goals:

45’ Jiménez

Key Substitutions:

45’ Danish Farooq ➡ Freddy Lallawmawma

75′ Sandeep Singh ➡ Rahul KP

85’ Alexandre Coeff ➡ Milos Drincic

How to Watch & Follow KBFC vs BFC

Posted on by KBFC Admin Sporthood

The Southern Derby returns as Kerala Blasters FC lock horns with arch-rivals Bengaluru FC in what promises to be a thrilling Indian Super League encounter. The highly anticipated clash is set for 25th October 2024 at 7:30 PM IST at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi. The Blasters will look to capitalise on home advantage and extend their winning run, adding further momentum to this season’s campaign.

TEAM NEWS

KBFC:

Kerala Blasters are buzzing after a stunning 2-1 comeback win against Mohammedan SC. Currently fifth in the standings with eight points from five matches, the Blasters will aim to carry this momentum into today’s high-stakes clash against Bengaluru FC at home in Kochi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Head Coach Mikael Stahre may opt for a more aggressive setup once again, relying on Peprah and Jimenez to unlock Bengaluru’s sturdy defence. With the home crowd behind them, the men in yellow will be eager to make a statement.

BFC:

Bengaluru FC came into this match after a 1-0 victory over Punjab FC, even with ten men for much of the second half. Head coach Gerard Zaragoza’s side has been exceptional, keeping five consecutive clean sheets and maintaining their unbeaten streak.

Key Players to Watch (KBFC):

Kwame Peprah: The super-sub has been pivotal for Kerala Blasters, and his attacking flair could make the difference against Bengaluru FC.

Jesus Jimenez: Jimenez’s clinical finishing was key in the Blasters’ last win, and his movement in the final third will be crucial in breaking through Bengaluru’s defence.

Vibin Mohanan: A dynamic midfielder known for his precise passing and vision on the field. Vibin has been a consistent performer this season, and his ability to control the tempo of the game will be essential in breaking down Bengaluru FC’s defence.

Som Kumar: The young goalkeeper who made his ISL debut against Mohammedan SC had a rough start but displayed great composure and shot-stopping skills by the end of the match. His performance will be key in keeping the Bengaluru attackers at bay.

HOW CAN I WATCH THE GAME?

Catch all the live action on Sports18, JioCinema, Asianet Plus, and OneFootball at 7:30 PM IST tonight. Stay tuned to Kerala Blasters FC’s social media channels for real-time updates and exclusive content from the game.

Mikael Stahre Backs Sachin Suresh

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In a recent press conference, Kerala Blasters’ head coach, Mikael Stahre, expressed unwavering support for goalkeeper Sachin Suresh, who has faced scrutiny in recent matches. Stahre acknowledged the challenges that come with the position, emphasising the importance of learning from errors rather than repeating them.

Acknowledging Mistakes and Supporting Players

When questioned about Sachin’s performance and whether changes would be made in the goalkeeping department, Stahre responded with a calm assurance. Mikael stated, “For me, first of all, everyone makes mistakes. Coaches, staff members, defenders, midfielders, strikers. And that’s a part of the game. It’s about avoiding the number of mistakes and not repeating the same mistakes over and over.”

Stahre emphasised that while mistakes are part of the game, it is crucial for players to learn and adapt. He believes that Sachin has shown great potential as a goalkeeper, remarking, “I think Sachin is a great goalkeeper. He has been good for us, and is also coming back from an injury.” This statement reflects the coach’s confidence in Sachin’s abilities and his importance to the team.

Despite Sachin’s recent challenges, Stahre indicated that there would be no immediate changes to the goalkeeping lineup. He reiterated that the focus would remain on hard work and preparation, stating, “It’s about practicing hard and preparing.”