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Kerala Blasters FC: 2024-25 ISL Fixtures Revealed

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The Indian Super League (ISL) has officially released the fixture list for the first half of the 2024-25 season until December 2024, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Kerala Blasters FC.The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is gearing up to warmly welcome its fans as the Blasters prepare to make a strong start in front of their dedicated fan base. As the club prepares for Season 11, the announcement of the fixtures highlights a crucial moment in the lead-up to what promises to be a thrilling campaign.

Season Opener

Kerala Blasters FC will commence their campaign with a home fixture on the 15th of the month against Punjab FC. For the 2024-25 season, Kerala Blasters FC will face a total of 14 matches until December, divided evenly between home and away matches. Following the season opener, Kerala Blasters will face East Bengal at home before embarking on their first away game against NorthEast United FC on September 29. Throughout the first half of the season, the Blasters will play a total of seven home matches and seven away matches, competing against some of the top teams in the league.

After these opening fixtures, the team will hit the road for their first away game against NorthEast United FC. The Blasters will then continue to alternate between home and away games, facing tough opponents such as Bengaluru FC, Hyderabad FC, and Mumbai City FC. This first half of the season will be crucial for Kerala Blasters FC as they aim to establish themselves as strong contenders in the league.

The club is currently fine-tuning their preparations in Kolkata following the culmination of the Durand Cup campaign, focusing on building for the upcoming Indian Super League season under Coach Mikael Stahre, who will be stepping into his first ISL season as a coach.

Kerala Blasters Qualify for the Quarter-Finals of the 2024 Durand Cup: Set to Clash with Bengaluru FC

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Kerala Blasters have advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2024 Durand Cup, setting up a highly anticipated showdown against Bengaluru FC. Guided by the club’s new Head Coach, Mikael Stahre, who is leading his troops in his first competitive campaign, and under the captaincy of Adrian Luna, the Blasters have shown remarkable determination and skill. As they prepare for the match at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on August 23rd, the focus is on maintaining momentum and pushing further toward success.

A Look Back at the Group Stage Matches

The Blasters started their 2024 Durand Cup campaign on the right note with an impressive 8-0 victory over Mumbai City FC. The match featured standout performances, including hat-tricks from Noah Sadaoui and Kwame Peprah, with Ishan Pandita adding two goals to the tally. Luna, Aiban, Aimen, and Saheef also played key roles in this historic win, which not only marked the Blasters’ largest margin of victory but also equaled the record for the biggest win in Durand Cup history, underscoring their attacking prowess.

In their second group stage fixture, the Blasters faced a tougher challenge against Punjab FC, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Despite falling behind just before halftime, the team showed resilience, with Aimen netting a crucial equalizer from a long cross by Peprah in the second half. The dynamic wing switching between Aimen and Noah added to their attacking versatility, while Som Kumar’s critical saves secured the draw, highlighting his composure under pressure.

The Blasters wrapped up their group stage with a commanding 7-0 victory over CISF Protectors FT. The first half alone saw six goals, with contributions from Noah Sadaoui, Aimen, Azhar, and Naocha. Azhar’s precise finish and Naocha’s impressive dribbling were standout moments. The return of experienced center-back Pritam Kotal to the starting XI brought defensive stability, allowing the team to dominate the match and secure their place in the quarter-finals.

Towards the Knockout Phase

As Kerala Blasters gear up for their quarter-final clash against Bengaluru FC on August 23rd, they focus on building upon their strong group stage performance. The knockout stages will present new challenges, but the Blasters are well-prepared. Captain Adrian Luna’s leadership has been instrumental throughout the campaign, with his experience and composure on the field serving as invaluable assets as the team navigates the high-stakes environment of the quarter-finals.

The Blasters’ attacking trio—Noah, Peprah, and Luna—has been a key highlight of their campaign, with each player bringing a unique dimension to the team’s offense. Noah’s pace, Peprah’s vision, and Luna’s influence in playmaking have formed a lethal partnership that has consistently troubled opposition defenses. As the tournament progresses, this trio will be crucial in breaking down tougher defenses and driving the Blasters toward their ultimate goal.

The consistency of the younger players has also been a significant aspect of the Blasters’ performance so far. Players like Aimen, Azhar, Naocha, and Freddy have stepped up when needed, contributing significantly to the team’s depth and versatility. Their performances have been key in ensuring the team’s success and promise a bright future for the club.

In defense, the team has displayed solidity that has been key to their success. The emergence of young goalkeeper Som Kumar has been particularly noteworthy, with his composure and key saves instilling confidence within the defense.

As Kerala Blasters approach their quarter-final fixture against Bengaluru FC, they do so with complete confidence. Every aspect of their game—offense, defense, and individual performances—is clicking well, and the team is ready to build on their strong group stage form. With the date set for August 23rd at 7:00 PM, Kerala Blasters are poised to tackle the challenge head-on and continue their pursuit of Durand Cup glory.

Kerala Blasters FC Confirm Nihal Loan Move to Punjab FC

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Kerala Blasters FC can confirm that Nihal Sudeesh will spend the 2024/25 season on loan at Punjab FC.

Nihal, who came up through the youth ranks of KBFC (barring a brief stint with the Indian Navy), made his senior team debut in the 2022/23 ISL season. The 23-year-old attacker, who has 19 appearances for the Blasters, will now join Punjab FC to further his experience.

This move was decided keeping in mind the need for necessary game-time and match experience at this stage of the talented youngster’s career. The Club will be tracking his progress closely.

Everybody at KBFC wishes Nihal all the best this season.

Grassroots & Community Outreach Manager – FULL TIME

Posted on by KBFC-Media
Job TitleGrassroots & Community Outreach Manager
Position TypeFull Time
Reports toAcademy Director
LocationKochi, Kerala.

About:

Kerala Blasters Football Club is an Indian professional football club based in Kochi, Kerala, competing in the Indian Super League. Built on the pillars of Collectivism, Inclusivity, and Sportsmanship, KBFC aims to be the biggest football club in India, generating young and talented players who represent the club at the national level and the country on the international playing field, thereby reinforcing Kerala’s legacy in the sport.

Purpose:

Are you passionate about fostering grassroots football and building community engagement? As our Grassroots and Community Outreach Manager, you’ll be at the forefront of developing and implementing grassroots initiatives, creating proprietary tournaments, and managing relationships with educational institutions, corporate groups, and community partners. Your role will be instrumental in expanding our grassroots football ecosystem and driving community involvement.

Key Responsibilities:

●       Act as the primary liaison between the Club and YBSA.

●   Collaborate with YBSA to plan and oversee grassroots activities.

●   Develop and implement proprietary tournaments and leagues within Kerala’s grassroots football ecosystem.

●   Design and launch school-level football tournaments and leagues across Kerala.

●   Build relationships with educational institutions to encourage participation.

●   Manage promotion, registration, and administration of events.

●   Establish football tournaments and leagues for corporate groups, including tech companies, business sectors, and government bodies.

●   Engage corporate partners to secure sponsorships and participation.

●   Organize and manage events to foster community spirit.

●   Oversee and conduct regular audits of YBSA operations.

●   Ensure efficient operation and management of YBSA elite centers (U8 to U13).

●   Monitor progress and performance of elite center initiatives.

●       Oversee branding of YBSA centers.

Requirements:

●       Master’s degree in Sports Management, Business Administration, or related field.

●   Prior experience in grassroots football development, community outreach, or event management, preferably within a sports organization.

●   Strong understanding of football culture and community engagement.

●   Excellent organizational and project management skills.

●   Strong leadership and communication abilities, with the capacity to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.

●   Ability to manage budgets and financial aspects of community programs.

●   Passion for football and a commitment to fostering grassroots talent.

●   Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate event schedules.

●       Willingness to travel occasionally for event management and community outreach activities.

Interested candidates to send their CV along with a cover letter to careers@kbfcofficial.com. The subject of the email must be “Grassroots and Community Outreach Manager – Kerala Blasters Football Club”. The deadline for submissions is 15th July 2024.

Kerala Blasters FC kick-off preseason in Thailand for the 2024-25 season

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The Kerala Blasters FC squad has arrived in Thailand, as it kicks off preseason preparations for the 2024-25 season.

The first team have set up base in Chonburi, at the Pattana Sports Comlex, where newly appointed Head Coach Mikael Stahre and his coaching staff are expected to take charge their first training session today.

The first set of players arrived in Thailand early in the morning with more arrivals expected later in the week.

Fans will be happy to note that defender Aiban Dohling and forward Kwame Peprah will be training again with squad following the season-ending injuries they sustained last season.

Goalkeeping coach Slaven Progvecki will get a first look at newly signed goalkeepers Som Kumar and Nora Fernandes, both of whom joined in the summer. They are joined by Md. Arbaz, is now into his second pre-season with the first team. Meanwhile, Sachin Suresh is continuing his rehabilition in Kochi and is expected to join the squad later.

Other fresh faces include winger R. Lalthanmawia and star forward Noah Sadaoui, both of whom are all set to participate in their first full preseason with the Club since joining the Blasters in the summer.

Loan returnees Saheef, Ajsal and Bikash, all of whom gained valuable minutes and match experience last season, also joined the squad as they look to cement their place for the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, youngsters Sreekuttan and Korou Singh have received preseason call-ups, the latter of whom is expected to join the squad later due to U-20 National Team commitments.

The rest of the travelling squad includes plenty of familiar faces, as they look to kick-start preseason preparations on the front-foot.

The full travelling squad is as follows:

Goalkeepers

Mohammed Arbaz, Nora Fernandes, Som Kumar

Defenders

Miloš Drinčić, Sandeep Singh, Hormipam Ruivah, Pritam Kotal, Prabir Das, Aiban Dohling, Muhammed Saheef, Naocha Singh

Midfileders

Mohammed Azhar, Mohammed Aimen, Jeakson Singh, Danish Farooq, Freddy Lallawmawma, Vibin Mohanan, Yoihenba Meitei

Forwards

Adrian Luna, Noah Sadaoui, iJaushua Sotirio, Kwame Peprah, Rahul KP, Bryce Miranda, Ishan Pandita, R. Lalthanmawia, Sreekuttan MS, Muhammad Ajsal, Sagolsem Bikash Singh, Saurav

The Blasters will spend 3 weeks in Thailand before travelling back to India for the 133rd Durand Cup, which is set to commence on July 26.

Kerala Blasters FC Sign Star Forward Noah Sadaoui

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*Kerala Blasters FC Sign Star Forward Noah Sadaoui*

Kerala Blasters Football Club (KBFC) is delighted to announce the signing of forward Noah Sadaoui on a two-year contract, which will keep the dynamic forward at the Club until 2026. Sadaoui brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of goal-scoring prowess to the Blasters, significantly bolstering our attacking options for the upcoming seasons.
Born in Morocco, Noah has had an impressive footballing journey, showcasing his talents across various leagues and continents. His career began in the youth ranks of Wydad Casablanca, before moving to the United States to join the PDA Academy, the youth team of MLS side New York Red Bulls. After a successful stint in the US, contributing significantly to his college’s Championship runs and earning numerous All-MAAC First Team Honours, Noah’s professional career took off with a series of significant moves, starting with Israeli Premier League Club Maccabi Haifa in 2013. His first taste of silverware would come South-African side Ajax Cape Town (now Cape Town Spurs), as he scored three goals in three appearances to help them lift the 2015 MTN 8. Between 2015 and 2017, Noah had stints at Miami United, with whom he won the 2016 National Premier Soccer League, Real CD Espana (Honduras), and Al-Khaburah SC (Oman).

It wasn’t until the 2017-18 season that Noah had his break-through goalscoring season, having scored 16 goals in 20 appearances for Omani side Mirbat SC. Noah continued his form with Enppi SC (Egypt), making 6 goal contributions in 17 appearances, before returning to Morocco with MC Oujda. In his two seasons with Oujda, Sadaoui recorded 12 goals and 6 assists in 43 appearances.

He went on to feature for Raja Casablanca and AS FAR, two of Morocco’s most decorated and successful clubs, before making a move to the Indian Super League (ISL) with FC Goa in 2022.

The 30-year-old forward has 54 appearances in the ISL, with a mouth-watering tally of 29 goals and 16 assists to his name over the last two seasons. Having contributed to a goal in nearly every game he’s played, Noah has quickly risen to prominence as a star in the league and one of the most exciting players in the ISL.
Noah has 4 National Team appearances since his debut in 2021. Most notably, he started in the semi-finals and the finals of the 2021 African Nations Championship, helping Morocco to the title.

Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, said:

‘‘I’m very happy Noah joined us to help reach our targets. Obviously we expect him to be one of most important players in our team and one of best players in the league like he was during the last two ISL seasons. I really appreciate his desire to join Kerala Blasters and feel that this association can be very successful.’’

On signing with the Blasters, Noah Sadaoui said:

“I am really excited to join Kerala Blasters and be part of such a passionate club. The energy and support from the KBFC fans is simply incredible, and I cannot wait to play in front of them. I’m looking forward to contributing to the club’ success and being part of this exciting journey. Together, we can achieve great things and make our mark this season.”

The star forward becomes the club’s first foreign signing of the summer. He will link up with his new team in Thailand, where the team is scheduled to kick-off it’s preseason preparations

FREEMANS Measuring Tools signs as the Main Sponsor of Kerala Blasters

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FREEMANS Measuring Tools, Hand Tools and Power Tools is thrilled to announce a landmark 5-year sponsorship deal with Kerala Blasters. This multi-year agreement will see the FREEMANS logo prominently displayed on Kerala Blasters team kits, official merchandise and throughout their stadium facilities. Kerala has consistently been a key market for FREEMANS Tools since its inception in 1950.

“We are thrilled to announce a 5-year sponsorship deal with India’s premier football team, Kerala Blasters Football Club” , says Sahil Nayar, Executive Director at FMI Limited. “Kerala has been a key market for FREEMANS Measuring Tools, Hand Tools and Power Tools throughout our 75-year rich history. We believe there is no better way to further strengthen our bond with the state and all Keralites than by supporting the Kerala Blasters. Furthermore, the partnership between FREEMANS and KBFC marks a significant step in our endeavour to support and nurture sporting excellence in our country. With this association, FREEMANS brings 1,500+ excited employees to join the Yellow Army and we will all be supporting the Kerala Blasters with full gusto for the next 5-years and beyond. Go KBFC!”

The Kerala Blasters management said that they are delighted to welcome FREEMANS to the Blasters family. “It gives us immense pleasure to welcome FREEMANS into the Blasters family. This partnership is a testament to the shared values of excellence, dedication, and community support that both KBFC and FREEMANS embody. FREEMANS has been a trusted name in Kerala for decades, and now, as we join hands and embark on this exciting 5-year journey together, we are confident that this journey will elevate both our brands to new heights. We thank FREEMANS for the trust placed in us and look forward to a very meaningful partnership, creating impact on and off the field.”

FMI Limited is the pioneer and the largest manufacturer of Measuring Tools in the Indian subcontinent. The diverse product line includes an extensive selection of Hand Tools and Power Tools. Marketed under the FREEMANS brand since 1950, the products meet the highest international quality standards. They are well established in over 60 countries worldwide and are amongst the first non-European companies to obtain CE (MID) certification for our measuring tools.

Kerala Blasters FC Signs Goalkeeper Nora Fernandes

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Kerala Blasters Football Club is thrilled to announce the signing of goalkeeper Nora Fernandes, who puts pen-to-paper on a 3-year-contract, until 2027.
Prior to joining the Blasters, Nora was with I-League side Aizawl FC. In what can be considered a breakthrough season, the 25-year-old goalkeeper made 17 appearances, impressing with his commanding presence in the penalty area, his strong reflexes, and his overall shot-stopping abilities.

Born in Goa, Nora started his youth and professional career at Salgaocar FC, having joined their U18 team. He represented them in the U18 I-League, and the Goa Professional League, before making the switch to Churchill Brothers in 2020. Between 2020 and 2023, the talented goalkeeper made 12 appearances. While the talent and raw ability was clear throughout, it was Aizawl that first spotted the potential, ultimately giving him a chance as first-choice goalkeeper in the 2023/24 I-League Season

Nora’s inclusion is based on his consistent performances, natural ability, and commanding physique in front of the goal. We had a task to reinforce goalkeeper position and we see potential in Nora to give us depth in this position

Karolis Skinkys – Sporting Director, Kerala Blasters FC

I’m proud and excited to join club like Kerala Blasters FC. I’m really looking forward to my first ISL season and I’m determined to give my best and perform to the highest of my abilities

Nora Fernandes – Goalkeeper, Kerala blasters fc

Nora Fernandes becomes the Club’s fourth domestic signing of the summer as well as the He also is the second goalkeeper signing in the summer, after Som Kumar. Nora’s addition will further strengthen and deepen the first-team goalkeeping unit, which also includes Sachin Suresh.
The entire Kerala Blasters FC community extends a warm welcome to Nora Fernandes and looks forward to a successful journey ahead. He will join the squad in Thailand, where the Blasters are set to kick-off preseason preparations for the upcoming season July 3rd onwards.

Kerala Blasters players arrive early for Fitness Camp in Kochi

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As the preseason in Thailand approaches, two squad members, Jaushua Sotirio and Sachin Suresh, who faced setbacks due to injuries last season, have arrived early in Kochi for fitness camp and medical evaluations.

Sotirio, the Australian winger who joined Kerala Blasters FC from the A-League club Newcastle Jets, suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during preseason training last year. Since then, he has been diligently undergoing rehabilitation to regain full fitness. His early arrival in Kochi marks a crucial phase as he undergoes comprehensive fitness assessments to gauge his readiness for the upcoming season.

Similarly, goalkeeper Sachin Suresh, who made 21 appearances for Kerala Blasters FC last season, encountered his own setback when he dislocated his shoulder during an away ISL match against Chennaiyin FC. Despite this setback, Sachin has demonstrated resilience and commitment in his road to recovery through his rehab process.

The club’s medical staff will conduct a series of rigorous fitness checks and tailored assessments to address each player’s specific needs. These evaluations are not only aimed at monitoring their physical recovery but also at enhancing their strength, agility, and overall conditioning to withstand the rigours of the upcoming season.

Kerala Blasters FC Sign Winger R Lalthanmawia

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Kerala Blasters Football Club is pleased to announce the signing of winger R. Lalthanmawia on a 3-year contract until 2027.

Lalthanmawia, an attacking winger, makes the move from I-League side Aizawl FC, where the 22-year-old made a name for himself through his ability to drive the game at pace, along with great skill on the ball and a consistent ability to build attacks.

Born in Mizoram, Lalthanmawia began his development as a professional footballer with Aizawl FC’s U-14 team. Progressing through the club’s developmental system, Lalthanmawia advanced through Aizawl’s youth teams, eventually breaking into Aizawl FC’s first team in the 2022/23 I-League season. He had an immediate impact, playing 20 I-League games and contributing with 3 goals and 5 assists.

Since then, he has gone on to represent Aizawl FC in competitions like the I-League and the Super Cup, becoming a vital member of the team. He added another 2 goals and 3 assists in the 2023/24 I-League season, taking his total tally for Aizawl FC 5 goals and 8 assists in 42 appearances.

Karolis Skinkys said:
“Lalthanmawia is a young player who brings with him a great deal of talent and opens up more attacking options for the squad. He still has a lot of areas to improve but we saw potential in him and believe that he can do it.”

R. Lalthanmawia said:

“I am very happy to be a part of a big club like Kerala Blasters FC. It is a massive opportunity for me, and I am grateful to the club’s management for showing faith in my ability. I will make sure to put in all my effort to contribute to the team’s success in every way possible over the upcoming season.”

Lalthanmawia becomes the club’s third domestic signing of the summer, after Som Kumar and Likmabam Rakesh. His addition will strengthen the first team’s attacking front, providing more options for the squad.

The Kerala Blasters FC family extends a warm welcome to R. Lalthanmawia and wishes him a successful season ahead. Lalthanmawia will join his first-team teammates in Thailand, where the Blasters squad is set to kick off preseason preparations for the upcoming season starting July 3rd.