Kerala Blasters FC

Kerala Blasters FC Fan Advisory Board Members Announced

Kerala Blasters FC is proud to introduce the members of its Fan Advisory Board (FAB), a group of dedicated supporters who will serve as a vital bridge between the club and its passionate fanbase. These individuals will play a key role in shaping fan engagement initiatives and Providing valuable insights to enhance the overall experience for all Blasters supporters.

Fan Advisory Board Members

International Representatives:

  • Gokul Gopalakrishnan (Poland)
  • Mathew George (United Kingdom)
  • Rahul Satish (Germany)
  • Pranav B Pillai (Spain)
  • Ajay Haridas (United Kingdom)

Domestic Representatives:

  • Sourab M Kalliyan
  • Somu P Joseph
  • Rakesh RS (Chennai)
  • Cerin Pathos
  • Rejin T Jays
  • Abijth Peroth (Bangalore)
  • Muhammad Jabir T A
  • Sajith AS

PWD Representative:

  • Anandkumar Subramony

The Fan Advisory Board members were selected based on their dedication, knowledge, and passion for Kerala Blasters FC. Their role is to provide valuable perspectives, ensuring that the voices of the fans are heard in key discussions related to the club’s growth and community engagement.
With the formation of the FAB, Kerala Blasters FC reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the connection with its supporters. This initiative is a step towards fostering a more interactive and inclusive fan culture.
The club extends its gratitude to all applicants and looks forward to working closely with the board members to enhance the fan experience.

An update on KBFC’s Fan Advisory Board.

Kerala Blasters FC originally planned to have a 12-member Fan Advisory Board (FAB) to facilitate greater interaction between fans and club. However, due to the overwhelming response and high-quality applications, the club has decided to increase the number of members from 12 to 14.

This ensures greater representation, with voices from diverse backgrounds being able to contribute to club development. The FAB will serve as a direct link between fans and management, having a say in significant decisions and projects.

Thank you to all applicants for their passion and commitment. Stay tuned for updates as the FAB works to enhance the fan experience and contribute to Kerala Blasters’ future success.

How to Watch & Follow FCG vs KBFC

The Blasters will be eager to turn things around against FC Goa at the Fatorda in a crucial away fixture tonight.

TEAM NEWS

Kerala Blasters FC

The Blasters’ interim head coach, TG Purushothaman, was candid about his team’s struggles in their last match. Despite showing aggression and intensity in the first half, clinical finishing from the Mariners saw KBFC fall short.

Currently eighth in the standings with 24 points from 20 matches, the Blasters remain in the hunt for a playoff spot but must deliver strong performances in the remaining fixtures. Purushothaman has emphasised the need to rectify mistakes and improve on key areas as they prepare to face the Gaurs.

FC Goa

FC Goa enter this game after a solid 3-1 away victory against Mumbai City FC. With this result, they have cemented their place in the top two, accumulating 39 points from 20 matches.

Head coach Manolo Marquez has been pleased with his team’s performances, highlighting their ability to control games and capitalise on key moments. With Goa still eyeing the League Shield, they will be eager to extend their impressive run and maintain their stronghold at the top end of the table.

Key Players to Watch (Kerala Blasters FC):

Dusan Lagator: The experienced midfielder will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game and providing defensive cover.

Jesus Jimenez: The dynamic forward has been a force to reckon with this season, netting 11 goals and racking up an assist.

Vibin Mohanan: The talented midfielder will play a vital role in KBFC’s midfield battle against Goa’s creative playmakers.

How to follow the action?

Catch the action live at 7:30 PM IST on Sports18, JioHotstar, Star Sports-3, Asianet Plus and OneFootball.

Match Preview: KBFC vs MBSG

The Blasters return to action at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi as they gear up for a head-to-head clash against Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Following a dominant 3-1 victory over Chennaiyin FC, the Blasters will be eager to continue their winning momentum against a formidable Mohun Bagan side.

Team Updates:
Kerala Blasters FC
The Blasters showcased a dominant performance in their recent match against Chennaiyin FC, securing a vital win with goals from Jesus Jimenez, Korou Singh, and Kwame Peprah. Interim Head Coach T.G. Purushothaman praised his players for their execution, emphasizing the need for consistency moving forward. “All credit goes to the players; they implemented our strategies perfectly. We must maintain this momentum,” he stated.

With the squad exhibiting strong attacking skills, the Blasters will aim to leverage their home advantage against a formidable Mohun Bagan team. Milos Drincic led a resilient defensive performance in the last match, and the backline will need to be equally strong to contain the Mariners’ attacking threats. However, the Blasters will have to cope with a significant setback as Noah Sadaoui has been ruled out due to injury.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Mohun Bagan SG are coming off an emphatic 3-0 victory over Punjab FC. Head Coach Jose Molina praised his team’s collective effort, highlighting the contributions of his players across all departments.

Despite their impressive form, Mohun Bagan has injury concerns, with key midfielders Sahal Abdul Samad and Anirudh Thapa uncertain for this fixture. Adding to their woes, Greg Stewart will miss the match due to suspension. However, their attacking duo of Jamie Maclaren, Liston Colaco, have been in fine form and will be a major threat to the Blasters’ defense.

KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH (KBFC):
Jesus Jimenez: A key attacking presence, Jimenez’s creativity and finishing ability will be crucial in unlocking Mohun Bagan’s defense.

Kwame Peprah: A powerful forward, Peprah’s movement and strength in the box will test the Mariners’ backline.

Milos Drincic: The defensive leader, Drincic’s ability to organize the backline and make crucial interceptions will be vital against Mohun Bagan’s potent attack.

How to watch and follow the game?
Catch the action live at 7:30 PM IST on JioHotstar, Star Sports-3, Asianet Plus and OneFootball.

Kerala Blasters FC vs. Mohun Bagan Super Giant: A Rivalry Forged in ISL History

Since the inception of the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2014, Kerala Blasters FC has shared an intense and competitive rivalry with Mohun Bagan Super Giant, formerly known as ATK and later ATK Mohun Bagan. The fixture has consistently been one of the most talked-about clashes in the league, including two ISL finals between both sides. Over the years, these encounters have played a crucial role in shaping the league’s history, making this one of the most highly anticipated fixtures every season.

ATK was one of the founding teams of the ISL, later merging with Mohun Bagan in 2020 to form ATK Mohun Bagan. The club eventually rebranded in 2023 as Mohun Bagan Super Giant, adopting the legacy of Mohun Bagan while continuing its participation in the ISL. Throughout these transitions, their clashes with Kerala Blasters have remained fiercely contested, with passionate support from both sets of fans.

ATK vs. Kerala Blasters (2014-2020)

The rivalry began in 2014, with Kerala Blasters reaching the first-ever ISL final, only to fall short in a narrow 1-0 loss. The following seasons saw Kerala Blasters challenge ATK in several tightly contested matches.

In 2016, Kerala Blasters secured an important league-stage win, showcasing their ability to stand toe-to-toe with their rivals. The season ended in a dramatic final where Kerala Blasters fought hard but were edged out in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw.

Between 2017 and 2019, the matches remained competitive, with both teams achieving wins and sharing points on several occasions.

ATK Mohun Bagan vs. Kerala Blasters (2020-2023)

Following the merger that formed ATK Mohun Bagan in 2020, the rivalry took on a new dimension. Their first meeting under the new identity ended in a close contest, with Kerala Blasters falling short by a single goal.

The matches that followed were often high-scoring and action-packed, including a hard-fought 2-2 draw in 2022. The 2022-23 season saw Kerala Blasters push their opponents to the limit, delivering competitive performances in both encounters.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs. Kerala Blasters (2023-Present)

With the club rebranding as Mohun Bagan Super Giant in 2023, Kerala Blasters continued to build upon their rivalry with them. The Blasters delivered a decisive away performance against the Mariners in December 2023, in what was a closely contested match.

The 2024-25 ISL season has already seen another competitive fixture, with Kerala Blasters putting up a strong fight in a 3-2 battle on December 14, 2024. The upcoming match between the two teams presents another opportunity for Kerala Blasters to make a strong statement.

The rivalry resumes on February 15, 2025, as Kerala Blasters FC faces Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi. With the home crowd behind them, the Blasters will be eager to secure a vital win. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST.

Secure Your Tickets Now!

Fans can experience this highly anticipated clash live at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Tickets are available for purchase on DISTRICT by Zomato and ensure you are a part of the electrifying atmosphere as Kerala Blasters take on Mohun Bagan Super Giant in this crucial ISL fixture.

Blaster to Watch: Lalthanmawia Renthlei (Amawia)

Lalthanmawia Renthlei, fondly known as Amawia, is one of the exciting talents in Kerala Blasters’ 2024-25 squad. 

The 22-year-old winger from Mizoram, who signed a three-year deal with the club in June 2024, is settling into the team’s rhythm and honing his skills to make an impact in the Indian Super League 2024-25 season.

Early Career and Rise at Aizawl FC

Amawia started his football journey with Aizawl FC’s U-14 team in 2015. After six years of development, he was promoted to the senior team in 2021.

Over the course of three seasons, he made 42 appearances in the I-League, scoring five goals and providing eight assists. His departure from Aizawl in May 2024 marked the end of a nine-year chapter, as he took on new challenges with Kerala Blasters.

New Beginnings with Kerala Blasters FC

Since joining Kerala Blasters, Amawia has made seven appearances, debuting on December 22 against Mohammedan SC. 

Utilized mainly as an impact substitute, he has come off the bench six times and started once in the Blasters’ last fixture against Chennaiyin FC. 

While he hasn’t registered any goal contributions yet, his performances have highlighted his agility and flair, creating space and unsettling opposition defenses.

With the season heading into its defining moments, Amawia will aim to keep growing and be a key contributor for Kerala Blasters.

Goalkeeper Kamaljit Singh Joins Kerala Blasters FC on season-long loan deal

Kerala Blasters FC would like to announce the acquisition of goalkeeper Kamaljit Singh on a season-long loan from Odisha FC. Kamaljit brings a wealth of experience from his tenure in the Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League, and the club is confident that his addition will bolster our squad for the upcoming season.

Born on December 28, 1995, in Punjab, India, Kamaljit began his football journey with the AIFF Academy. He later joined Sporting Clube de Goa in 2014, marking his entry into professional football.

Kamaljit Singh began his professional career with Sporting Goa (2014–2016), making his debut in the Durand Cup against United SC on October 29, 2014. After a brief stint with Minerva Punjab (2017), where he appeared in two I-League matches, he moved to FC Pune City (2017–2019), featuring in 11 ISL matches and gaining valuable experience. 

His performances earned him a move to Hyderabad FC (2019–2020), where he established himself as a regular starter with 12 appearances in the season. He then joined Odisha FC (2020–2022), continuing his consistent performances with 15 caps. Kamaljit later signed with East Bengal (2022–2024), where he further solidified his reputation as a dependable goalkeeper with 25 matches before returning to Odisha FC.

Kamaljit has represented India at various youth levels, including the U19 and U23 teams. He was part of the squad for the 2014 Asian Games, gaining valuable international exposure. 

Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys expressed his enthusiasm about the new signing:

“We are happy to welcome Kamaljit Singh to Kerala Blasters. His experience and skills will be valuable to the squad as we aim for a successful season ahead.”

Kamaljit Singh also shared his excitement:

“Joining Kerala Blasters is a significant step in my career. I look forward to contributing to the team’s success and connecting with the overall goal of the team.”

The club believes that Kamaljit’s addition will strengthen our goalkeeping department and provide healthy competition within the squad. We are confident that his presence will be instrumental in achieving our objectives for the remainder of the season.

How to Follow CFC vs KBFC?

The Blasters are set for an intense outing as they take on Chennaiyin FC in a crucial away fixture. They will be determined to bounce back and secure vital points in Chennai tonight.

TEAM UPDATES:

Kerala Blasters FC

The Blasters in their last game against East Benga FC were undone by defensive lapses, which cost them crucial points. Interim Head Coach T.G. Purushothaman stated, “Despite our strong performance, we struggled to convert chances. We have analyzed our mistakes and are focused on making improvements against Chennaiyin FC.”

Despite showing a strong performance, converting opportunities into goals remains a key area of improvement. Defensively, Kerala Blasters are working to tighten their backline after conceding four goals in the last three matches.

Chennaiyin FC
Chennaiyin FC enters this clash on the back of a disappointing 2-0 defeat against FC Goa. Head Coach Owen Coyle expressed his frustration over defensive errors that led to conceding early goals.

Despite their challenges, Chennaiyin remains a formidable opponent with a physical playing style and a squad capable of turning games around. With four of their remaining six games at home, they will be looking to capitalize on their fixtures and push for a positive finish to the season.

KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH (KBFC):
Naocha Singh: A solid presence in defense, Naocha’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions will be essential in countering Chennaiyin’s attacking threats.

Kwame Peprah: The dynamic forward has the strength and finishing ability to trouble opposition defenders. His movement and physicality will be key in breaking down Chennaiyin’s backline.

Jesus Jimenez: The Spaniard with his ability in the attacking third and goal-scoring instincts is a crucial asset in Kerala Blasters’ attacking setup. His ability to link up with other attackers and take on defenders will be crucial in this match.

How to watch and follow the game?
Catch the action live at 7:30 PM IST on Sports18, JioCinema, Star Sports-3, Asianet Plus and OneFootball.

Korou Singh’s Journey: From Reserves to the First Team

Korou Singh’s impressive journey from the reserve squad to the first team underlines both his determination and the effectiveness of the club’s development pathway. As a dynamic winger, Korou has significantly added to Kerala Blasters FC’s attacking play with his vision, pace, and technical skills in the highly competitive 2024–25 ISL season.
He has made 11 appearances and provided 4 assists so far, proving himself to be a reliable asset for the team. His ability to make crucial plays in key moments not only showcases his development as a player but also illustrates his transition from a promising reserve talent to a significant contributor in the top tier of Indian football.

Reserves to Kerala Blasters Team

In August 2023, Korou signed with Kerala Blasters FC and was initially registered with the club’s reserve team. While playing for the reserves in the 2023–24 Kerala Premier League, he made an immediate impact by scoring on his debut against Kerala Police and adding another goal in an 8–0 victory over MK Sporting Club. These performances highlighted his readiness for a bigger platform and caught the attention of the senior coaching staff.
Korou’s consistent performances earned him a call-up to the senior team camp for the 2024 Indian Super Cup. On January 20, 2024, he made his senior team debut against NorthEast United FC, coming on as a substitute and becoming the youngest player to debut for Kerala Blasters at 17 years old.
His Indian Super League (ISL) debut took place on April 6, 2024, also against NorthEast United, where he was substituted during the 77th minute. On November 7, 2024, Korou recorded his first assist for the senior team in a match against Hyderabad, making him the youngest player in ISL history to achieve this milestone.
Korou has significantly impacted the first team, especially with his ability to contribute during crucial moments, despite having limited opportunities. The assists he made this season highlight his skill in creating scoring chances, particularly in high-pressure situations.
His vision and quick decision-making have added a dynamic element to the Blasters’ attacking play. Coming on as a substitute in several matches, he injected energy and pace, effectively exploiting tired defenses late in the games.
Recognizing his potential, Kerala Blasters FC offered him a contract extension until 2029, solidifying their belief in his abilities and long-term value to the team. The extension reflects the club’s vision of nurturing homegrown talent and providing them with a platform to shine at the highest level. This long-term commitment not only underscores the club’s confidence in his abilities but also secures one of Indian football’s most promising young players.

Contributions to Indian Football

Korou has also made a significant impact on the international stage as a regular player for the Indian national team at various underage levels. He was part of the squad that won the 2022 SAFF U-17 Championship, scoring in the final match against Nepal. In the 2023 AFC U-17 Asian Cup qualifiers, he scored a goal against Kuwait and served as the team captain during preparatory tours in Spain and Germany. His performances in these competitions highlighted both his potential and leadership qualities.
Korou’s journey from the reserves to the first team showcases the success of Kerala Blasters’ youth development system. His advancement emphasizes the significance of patience, hard work, and taking advantage of opportunities—qualities that aspiring players should strive to emulate.

Match Report: EBFC vs KBFC  

Kerala Blasters FC faced their first setback of the year, falling short 2-1 to the Torchbearers at Salt Lake Stadium in an away fixture of the Indian Super League.

First Half: Early Lead for East Bengal

The match began with both teams battling for control, and East Bengal capitalized on a swift counterattack to seize the lead in the 21st minute. Vishnu PV’s composed finish gave the hosts an early advantage.  

Despite being closely marked, the attacking duo of Adrian Luna and Noah Sadaoui showed determination to penetrate East Bengal’s defense. However, the Blasters went into halftime trailing by a goal.  

Second Half: A Spirited Comeback

The Blasters started the second half with renewed energy, demonstrating their ability to adapt and mount a comeback. However, East Bengal extended their lead in the 72nd minute with a well-executed goal by Hijazi. Despite this setback, Kerala Blasters continued to fight relentlessly.  

Substitutions in the second half proved pivotal in shifting the momentum of the game for the visitors. Danish Farooq entered the game and made an immediate impact.  

In the 83rd minute, Danish produced a moment of brilliance with a stunning half-volley from the edge of the box, curling the ball into the top corner of the net. This goal reignited the Blasters, who pressed fiercely for an equalizer in the closing minutes.  

Although they generated several opportunities and forced East Bengal to defend deeply in the dying moments, the Blasters were unable to find the equalizing goal.  

The team now shifts its focus to the next fixture against Chennaiyin FC on January 30 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai.  

Starting XI

Sachin Suresh (GK), Jesus Jimenez, Noah Sadaoui, Adrian Luna (C), Korou Singh, Vibin Mohanan, Freddy Lallawmawma, Milos Drincic, Hormipam, Ruivah, Sandeep Singh, Naocha Singh  

Substitutions:

– 58’ Milos Drincic ➡️ Kwame Peprah     

– 67’ Korou Singh ➡️ Lalthanmawia Renthlei 

– 80’ Vibin Mohanan  ➡️ Danish Farooq 

Goal:  

– 83’ Danish Farooq