Kerala Blasters FC can confirm that Victor Bertomeu will serve a three-match suspension due to a red card as a result of retrospective action after the club’s last fixture.
The club can also confirm that Korou Singh will be unavailable for selection for an indefinite period due to personal reasons.
The Blasters return to the fortress tonight as they host Chennaiyin FC in a high-voltage Southern Derby at the JLN Stadium, Kochi, with kick-off set for 7:30 PM IST. The fixture arrives at a pivotal moment early in the Indian Super League season, with both sides searching for their first win, setting the stage for an intense contest under the Kochi lights.
— Kerala Blasters FC (@KeralaBlasters) March 7, 2026
Match Preview
The Blasters step into tonight’s clash with clear intent: to reset the narrative. Despite a difficult start to the campaign, Head Coach David Català and his squad remain focused on turning performances into points and reigniting their season in front of the Yellow Army.
Derbies often provide the perfect spark, and history suggests the Blasters will draw confidence from this fixture. Kerala have enjoyed strong results against Chennaiyin in previous meetings, including doing the league double over them last season — a reminder that this rivalry has frequently tilted in favour of the men in yellow.
More importantly, the mood within the camp is about response. Català has emphasised belief in the process and the players’ commitment to raising intensity, sharpening execution in the final third, and restoring the attacking edge that defines the Blasters’ identity.
Tonight’s game therefore represents more than just three points. It is an opportunity — an opportunity for the squad to show character, for the coaching staff’s ideas to translate into results, and for Kochi to once again become the catalyst for momentum.
“The players are getting ready for tomorrow and we have created the right environment around them to stay positive and motivated.” ~ David on facing Chennaiyin tomorrow 🗣️🟡🔵
The Blasters have confirmed the arrival of Senegalese defender Ndiaye Fallou, who joins the club to bolster the defensive ranks ahead of the upcoming phase of the season.
— Kerala Blasters FC (@KeralaBlasters) March 4, 2026
Born in Leona Thiaroye, Senegal, the 23-year-old centre-back stands at an imposing 1.98 metres, bringing significant physical presence, aerial strength and defensive authority to the Blasters backline.
Ndiaye arrives from Finnish top-flight side SJK Seinäjoki, where he featured regularly in the Veikkausliiga, gaining valuable experience in European football.
— Kerala Blasters FC (@KeralaBlasters) March 4, 2026
During his time in Finland, Ndiaye developed into a reliable defensive figure. Across all competitions, he made 56 appearances, contributing 8 goals and 2 assists — an impressive attacking return for a centre-back.
In league action alone, Ndiaye made 37 appearances and scored five goals, highlighting his aerial threat and effectiveness during set-piece situations.
Strong in duels and comfortable defending in high-intensity matches, Ndiaye also gained experience in continental competition, featuring in UEFA Conference League qualifiers during his spell with SJK.
Still only 23, Ndiaye represents immediate defensive reinforcement. His combination of physical dominance, aerial ability and European exposure adds another dimension to Kerala Blasters’ defensive options.
The club welcomes Fallou and wishes him success in yellow and blue.
There is a measured confidence around Kochi as #TheBlasters step into their next test of the campaign against Inter Kashi. Early-season scorelines rarely tell the full story, and inside the Blasters’ camp, the focus has remained firmly on progression.
Across the opening two fixtures, the indicators have been clear. Structure without the ball has improved, the distances between lines are tighter, and the team has shown a willingness to control phases of the game. There is a growing clarity in roles and a noticeable increase in composure during build-up — elements that tend to settle before results follow. The belief is that the foundation is being laid correctly.
That belief will be tested against an Inter Kashi side that has shown resilience and maturity. Draws against FC Goa and Odisha FC underline their ability to stay competitive against established opposition.
They are compact, disciplined, and comfortable defending for long periods before striking in moments. Breaking them down will require patience, movement, and precision in the final third which was highlighted by Head Coach David Catala in the pre-match presser.
For the Blasters, there is renewed optimism on that front. The squad has been bolstered by the arrival of Scottish striker Jai Quitongo, who has linked up with the team in Kochi ahead of today’s game. Jai brings a different profile to the attacking unit — physical presence, direct running, and an instinct to attack space. His integration adds competition and variation, particularly in moments where the game demands a sharper edge in the box.
Beyond personnel, there is a sense that the collective understanding is beginning to click. Transitions have looked more controlled, pressing triggers more coordinated, and the intent to dominate territory has been evident. These are the details that often define successful sides over the course of a season, even if they take time to convert into immediate rewards.
Tonight, the objective is clear: turn promise into authority. At home, in front of familiar surroundings, #TheBlasters are not chasing validation — they are building momentum. The confidence is quiet, the preparation deliberate, and the mindset firmly forward-looking.
Kerala Blasters FC are delighted to announce a landmark partnership with White Gold, South India’s No.1 gold buying company and the leading gold buying brand in Kerala. Marking the first-ever association between the two organisations, White Gold joins the club as its Title Partner and Official Gold Buying Partner for the 2025-26 season.
As part of the agreement, White Gold will feature prominently on the front of the Kerala Blasters jersey throughout the upcoming campaign, signalling an exciting new chapter for both brands as they come together around a shared commitment to trust, ambition and community.
White Gold has earned its reputation as one of the most trusted and organised gold buying companies in South India. Known for its transparent processes, tech-driven valuation systems and customer-first approach, the brand currently operates over 100 branches across Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. With an ambitious expansion plan targeting 50 stores in Kerala, White Gold continues to strengthen its footprint in the region.
“Partnering with Kerala Blasters FC, a club with one of the most dedicated fanbases in Indian football, aligns with our values of trust, transparency, and community. We are proud to take this journey together and look forward to memorable moments ahead,” said Babu C Joseph, Managing Director of White Gold.
“At White Gold, we are proud to partner with Kerala Blasters FC, a club that truly represents the passion and spirit of Kerala. Kerala remains central to our growth story, and we are excited to stand alongside KBFC as they embark on the 2025–26 season,” said Rahul Joseph, Founder and CEO, White Gold Bullion Pvt Ltd.
“We are thrilled to welcome White Gold as Title Partner. This collaboration reflects the club’s vision of creating meaningful, community-driven experiences. With White Gold’s strong regional presence and shared values, we are confident this partnership will amplify our impact on and off the field,” said Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC.
Together, White Gold and Kerala Blasters FC unite around a shared vision, built on trust, driven by ambition, and deeply connected to the people of Kerala.
Kerala Blasters FC produced a performance rich in control, courage, and character, even as the scoreline read a narrow 1–0 defeat against Mumbai City FC at the final whistle.
Against a side known for its composure and efficiency, The Blasters looked sharper, braver, and markedly improved from their previous outing. The Blasters pressed with intent, moved the ball with confidence, and dictated long phases of play—an evening that felt more like a statement of direction than a setback.
A defining moment arrived when debutant goalkeeper Arsh announced himself on the big stage. The young shot-stopper produced a superb penalty save to deny Jorge Pereyra Díaz, showcasing calmness beyond his years. It was a performance built on sharp reflexes, assured positioning, and authority—an outing that underlined why the club places faith in its youth.
The night also marked the senior-team debut of Muhammed Ajsal, another clear signal of the club’s long-term vision. Given the license to express himself, Ajsal played with freedom and fearlessness, embodying Kerala Blasters’ commitment to nurturing talent and providing a genuine pathway from the reserves to the first team.
While Mumbai City FC took the points through a solitary goal, the broader narrative belonged to the Blasters’ growth. This was a performance defined by trust in youth, collective discipline, and visible progression—hallmarks of a team building something sustainable.
The result may not reflect it, but the direction is clear. And nights like these tend to matter when the season finds its rhythm.
The Blasters return to Kochi tonight for their first home fixture of the season, as they welcome Mumbai City FC under the lights at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. After a prolonged wait, Kaloor opens its doors once again.
The lights are on. The doors are open. Kochi, we’re home 🟡🔵
This is more than a routine league encounter. It is the re-establishment of home advantage, identity, and momentum, with the Yellow sea back in full voice and the Blasters eager to set the tone for the season ahead.
Match Context
The Blasters approach this fixture with clear intent: to respond, reset, and reassert themselves in familiar surroundings. The focus remains on collective structure, intensity off the ball, and control in key phases of play — attributes that have historically defined strong home performances in Kochi.
Mumbai City FC arrive with early confidence, having started the season positively. However, trips to Kochi have rarely been straightforward. The environment, tempo, and emotional charge of this fixture often narrow margins and demand resilience from visiting sides.
Tactical Overview
Kerala Blasters are expected to prioritise compact defensive organisation while pressing aggressively in midfield zones. Winning second balls, managing transitions, and using width to stretch the opposition will be central to their approach.
Ball circulation through midfield, coupled with purposeful movement in advanced areas, will be key to breaking Mumbai City’s structure. Discipline without the ball and clarity in attacking phases will define the Blasters’ ability to dictate the rhythm of the contest.
Home Advantage
Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium has long been a proving ground where energy translates into execution. With supporters returning in numbers, the lift provided by the stands is expected to play a decisive role — driving intensity, sharpening focus, and reinforcing belief across the ninety minutes.
Three points matter. Confidence matters more. A composed, committed performance at home can set the foundation for the weeks ahead and re-establish Kochi as a venue where standards are non-negotiable.
The 28-year-old attacker joins the Blasters after a diverse professional career across Europe and beyond, bringing versatility, physicality, and experience to the club’s attacking unit. Quitongo is capable of operating as a centre-forward and on either flank, adding tactical flexibility to our forward options.
Born in Wishaw, Scotland, Quitongo began his senior career in the Scottish leagues, notably with Greenock Morton, before spells with Partick Thistle, Machine Sazi in Iran, Dumbarton, Queen’s Park, and Maltese side Marsaxlokk. He has accumulated significant first-team experience across multiple divisions and competitive environments.
Quitongo has also been recognised at the international level, having featured for the Scotland Under-21 national team.
Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC, said:
“We are happy to welcome Jai to the Blasters! Hopefully, he will be able to contribute to the team and make this season a success for himself and for the club.”
Jai expressed his intent on arrival:
“I’m delighted and honoured to be able to represent Kerala Blasters. I hope to bring success and joyful moments to all the fans who support this beautiful club.”
Kerala Blasters FC begin their 2025/26 Indian Super League campaign on the road against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, as Indian football’s biggest narratives collide in the opening fixture of the season.
The Mariners enter the new campaign under new leadership, with Sergio Lobera taking charge for the first time. Known for his possession-driven philosophy and domestic success, Lobera inherits a squad stacked with experience and ambition, making this an immediate test of his imprint on the champions.
For #TheBlasters, the focus is firmly forward. After navigating a challenging period on and off the pitch, the Blasters arrive in Kolkata re-energised and reinforced. Strategic additions during the winter transfer window have added depth and balance, while the arrival of Indian international Rowllin Borges brings leadership, composure, and top-level experience to the heart of midfield.
Head Coach David Catala’s side has used the pre-season to recalibrate — blending new foreign recruits with a strong Indian core, and sharpening a collective identity built on intensity, discipline, and belief. This opener is less about looking back and more about signalling intent.
Català has emphasised mental focus and adaptability against a formidable MBSG side.
As the new Indian Super League season kicks off, Kerala Blasters step onto the pitch not burdened by the past, but driven by what lies ahead.
Broadcast: Live on Sony Sports Network and streamed on FanCode.
The Blasters are pleased to confirm the signing of Salahudheen Adnan ahead of the 2025/26 Indian Super League season, marking a homecoming for the pacey winger who returns to the herd after his initial stint in the club’s reserve ranks in 2021 — a full-circle moment in his professional journey.
Salahudheen is a Kerala-born wide attacker known for his direct dribbling, quick acceleration, and ability to stretch defences on either flank. After emerging through local setups in Kerala and impressing in youth competitions such as the Reliance Foundation Development League, he earned a move to Mohun Bagan Super Giant, where he featured prominently for the reserves and caught wider attention with strong performances in the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup.
The 24-year-old’s development has been defined by his ability to beat defenders in one-on-ones and influence the final third with incisive runs and innovative passing — traits that have drawn comparisons to some of the most dynamic wide players in Indian football.
Bringing Salahudheen back to Kochi aligns with KBFC’s stated strategic emphasis on integrating young Indian talent capable of shaping the club’s attacking identity.
Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC, said:
“We are pleased to welcome back Adnan, who is a winger of prodigious talent. We hope that he can prove his mettle to all of us at the Blasters.“
Adnan spoke about the move:
“It feels good to be back where it all began. I’m ready to work, grow, and give everything for this badge.”