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Kerala Blasters secure 3 points in an emphatic comeback win

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kerala Blasters secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against East Bengal FC in a thrilling encounter, showing grit and determination to earn all three points. The match started with both teams feeling each other out, but it was Kerala Blaster’s goalkeeper, Sachin Suresh, who truly shone in the first half. His incredible triple-save in the 18th minute to deny Nandakumar Sekar’s close-range effort kept the game level. Sachin stood tall throughout the match, repeatedly frustrating East Bengal’s attack, including Mahesh Singh and Nandhakumar Sekar.

Kerala had their moments as well, with Jesus Jimenez coming agonizingly close in the 8th minute when he rattled the woodwork after a neat exchange of passes with Noah Sadoui. Despite some promising play from Rahul KP and Vibin Mohanan, the deadlock remained unbroken going into halftime, as both teams struggled to convert their chances.

The second half began with East Bengal taking control, displaying more attacking intent. Rahul KP linked up well with Alexandre Coeff early on, but Coeff couldn’t capitalize on a promising chance in the 49th minute. In the 59th minute, East Bengal found the breakthrough when Vishnu Vinod, coming off the bench as a super sub, scored on his home soil. Dimitrios Diamantakos pounced on a loose ball outside the box and played a perfect assist to Vishnu, who slotted it into the net to give East Bengal a 1-0 lead.

However, Kerala Blasters quickly responded. Just four minutes later, Noah Sadoui equalized for KBFC in the 63rd minute. After a neat buildup, Sadoui found himself in space and finished confidently to make it 1-1. The match opened up after the equalizer, with both teams pushing hard for the winner, but neither side could find a decisive goal. Kerala’s substitutes, including Kwame Peprah, brought fresh energy to the game, testing East Bengal’s defense with their pressing and physicality, but the score remained level as the match continued to intensify.

In the 88th minute, Peprah’s persistence paid off when he broke free inside the box and put the ball into the back of the net, giving Kerala a 2-1 lead. Despite East Bengal’s best efforts, including several dangerous crosses from Naorem Mahesh Singh and Nandhakumar Sekar, Kerala’s defense held strong. Milos Drincic, who captained the side in the absence of Adrian Luna, alongside Aiban Dohling, made crucial clearances to deny East Bengal’s late attempts.

Goalkeeper Sachin Suresh continued his heroics in the dying moments of the game, making key saves to deny Saul Crespo. Kerala’s backline, supported by Pritam Kotal and Naocha Singh, managed to shut down East Bengal’s offense, maintaining their lead as the clock wound down. With six minutes of added time, Kerala Blasters held firm to see out the game and claim an impressive 2-1 victory.

The win sees Kerala Blasters build further momentum as they look ahead to their next challenge against NorthEast United. With confidence high, Kerala Blasters will be eager to continue their winning run and strengthen their position in the league.

Substituitions:

65’ Sandeep Singh ➡️ Mohammed Aimen
Danish Farooq ➡️ Aibanbha Kupar Dolhing

74’ – Jesus Jimenez ➡️ Kwame Peprah
Vibin Mohan➡️ Mohammed Azhar

89’- Alexander Coeff ➡️ Freddy Lallawmawma

Goals:
63’ Noah Sadoui
88’ Kwame Peprah

Match Gallery:

Match Preview: Kerala Blasters FC vs East Bengal FC

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kerala Blasters FC gear up to face East Bengal FC in what promises to be an exciting encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on 22nd September, Sunday at 19:30 IST. Both teams are seeking their first win of the new Indian Super League (ISL) season, with the Blasters eager to bounce back after a narrow defeat in their opening match.

Team News

Kerala Blasters FC:
The Blasters kicked off their Indian Super League 2024 campaign with a 2-1 loss to Punjab FC in their season opener. The team showed promising signs, with striker Jesus Jimenez finding the back of the net. Key additions like Noah Sadaoui and Alexandre Coeff are expected to make an impact.
Coach Stahre will focus on tightening the defense and creating more cohesive attacking opportunities as they face a determined East Bengal side.

East Bengal FC:
East Bengal FC, under the guidance of head coach Carles Cuadrat, come into this match following a 1-0 loss in their opener against Bengaluru FC. Despite creating several chances, the Kolkata side was unable to find the back of the net.
Cuadrat has emphasized the importance of sharpness in front of goal. Key players like Cleiton Silva and Nandhakumar Sekar are expected to lead the attack against Kerala Blasters FC.

How to Watch
Catch all the action live on Sports18, JioCinema, Asianet Plus, and OneFootball at 19:30 IST. Stay tuned to Kerala Blasters’ social media platforms for live updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more.

Match Tickets
Be a part of the electric atmosphere at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium! Get your tickets for the Kerala Blasters FC vs East Bengal FC match here.
Let’s back the boys in yellow as they aim to secure their first win of the season!

Vibin Mohanan Signs a Contract Extension Until 2029

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kerala Blasters FC is thrilled to announce that midfielder Vibin Mohanan has extended his stay with the club by signing a new four-year contract until 2029.

Vibin, who joined Kerala Blasters’ youth wing in 2020, was promoted to the first team in 2022. Since then, the 21-year-old midfielder has made significant strides, showcasing his talent across several major competitions, including the Indian Super League (ISL), Durand Cup, and Super Cup.

To date, Vibin has made 28 appearances across all competitions for Kerala Blasters, registering his maiden goal and providing 4 assists. Vibin was also recently selected to represent India in the U-23 national team, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Expressing his excitement over the contract extension, Vibin said: 

“I am incredibly grateful to Kerala Blasters for believing in me and supporting my development. It’s a privilege to continue my journey with the club, and I am determined to give my best for the team in the coming years. The fans here in Kerala have always been amazing, and I can’t wait to keep making them proud.”

KBFC Sporting Director, Karolis Skinkys said: 

“We are delighted to have secured Vibin for the long term. He is a player with immense potential and has already shown his capabilities at such a young age. We believe Vibin will continue to grow and become a key part of our project here at Kerala Blasters.

Match Review: KBFC vs PFC

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Punjab FC 2-1 Kerala Blasters FC

In their opening match of the Indian Super League 2024-25 season, Kerala Blasters FC were denied victory by a dramatic Filip Mrzljak goal in the 95th minute, sealing a 2-1 win for Punjab FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi. In a thrilling encounter, the Blasters fought valiantly, equalizing in injury time through striker Jesús Jiménez, only to see their efforts undone in the dying moments.

First Half: A Tight Contest

The match began with Kerala Blasters paying a silent tribute to Wayanad. The starting XI featured French international Alexandre Coeff making his ISL debut in midfield alongside Freddy. Notably, captain Adrian Luna was absent, leaving defender Miloš Drinčić to marshal the backline. The first half was a cagey affair with limited chances for both sides, as the ball remained largely confined to the midfield.

Punjab FC thought they had broken the deadlock when Mushaga Bakenga put the ball in the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside, leaving the game scoreless at halftime.

Second Half: Injury Time Drama

Kerala Blasters made an immediate impact in the second half with the introduction of Vibin Mohanan and Spanish striker Jesús Jiménez. Their presence injected more pace into the attack, and Noah Sadaoui came close to opening the scoring with a powerful shot, only to be denied by Punjab goalkeeper Ravi Kumar.

Blasters’ head coach Mikael Stahre made five substitutions in the second half, searching for a breakthrough. However, against the run of play, a challenge from Muhammed Saheef on Leon Augustine in the 85th minute led to Punjab being awarded a penalty. Luka Majcen calmly converted, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead.

With the home crowd urging them on, Kerala Blasters found an equalizer in the 92nd minute. A perfectly placed cross from Pritam Kotal found Jesús Jiménez, who scored with a precise header on his debut, leveling the match at 1-1 and sending the home fans into a frenzy.

Just when it seemed like the match would end in a draw, Punjab FC launched a last-minute attack. In the 95th minute, Filip Mrzljak struck a ball delivered from a tight angle into the net, sealing a dramatic victory for Punjab FC.

Kerala Blasters will now look to regroup as they prepare for their next fixture against East Bengal FC on 22nd September, aiming to bounce back and secure their first win of the ISL season.

Substitutions:

46’ – Kwame Peprah ➡ Jesús Jiménez

46’ – Mohammed Aimen ➡ Vibin Mohanan

70’ – Freddy Lallawmawma ➡ Mohammed Azhar

75’ – Sandeep Singh ➡ Aibanbha Dolhing

87’ -Muhammed Saheef ➡ Sukham Yoihenba Meitei

Goal:
92’ – Jesús Jiménez

Match Gallery:

Yoihenba Meitei Signs New Contract with Kerala Blasters Until 2027

Posted on by KBFC-Media

We are thrilled to announce that young midfielder Yoihenba has signed a contract extension with Kerala Blasters FC, securing his future with the Club until 2027, with an option for further extension.

Yoihenba, a talented graduate from the Club’s Academy system, made his promotion into the first team last season. Since then he has been a constant part of the first team squad showing gradual improvement during preseason friendlies and the Durand Cup this season. He has also shown a knack for scoring goals, further proving his growth and potential under the new Head Coach Mikael Stahre.

Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, expressed his excitement:

“I’m pleased to see the progress Yoihenba has made in recent years. He is a commited player, a product of our academy. His journey to the first team was long and I’m happy to see his development year after year. I believe Yoihenba will continue to grow and contribute more to the with every passing season.”

Yoihenba said:

“I’m honored and excited to continue my journey with Kerala Blasters. The support from the management and the coaching staff has been amazing through my time as a part of the club, and I’m fully committed to giving my best on the pitch for the team.”

A hardworking and dynamic midfielder, Yoihenba will add depth and options in the midfield as the Club steps into a new season!

Everyone at Kerala Blasters FC congratulates Yoihenba on his new contract and looks forward to his continued success with the team!

Match Preview: KBFC vs PFC

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Match Preview

Kerala Blasters FC vs Punjab FC

Kerala Blasters get the new Indian Super League season underway on 15th September (Sunday) when we welcome Punjab FC to Kaloor for a 19:30 IST kick-off.

The Blasters have already returned to competitive action, in the Indian Oil Durand Cup, and we narrowly missed a spot in the semi-finals.

Sunday’s game against #TheShers presents an opportunity for Mikael’s men to build on encouraging performances and start the season in the best possible manner.

Keep scrolling to find team news, opposition information and details about how you can follow the game…

HOW TO WATCH AND FOLLOW

The game will be broadcast live on Sports18, JioCinema, AsianetPlus, and OneFootball at 7:30 PM IST. You can also follow the build-up and in-game updates on our social media platforms.

TEAM NEWS

KBFC

The Blasters have reinforced their attack ahead of this season with the acquisition of ISL star Noah Sadaoui, and Spanish striker Jesus Jimenez Nunez. At the back, experienced French defender Alexandre Coeff has been brought in along with Likmabam Rakesh from Neroca FC.

With a new boss at the helm in the form of Mikael Stahre, KBFC will look to turn over a new leaf this season. Having faced PFC earlier in the Durand Cup which resulted in a stalemate, Mikael will use that knowledge to prepare the squad accordingly this time out.

PFC

#TheShers have undergone a massive overhaul starting with the appointment of Head Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis. PFC parted ways with five foreign players and several Indian players ahead of the new season.

A relatively stable season for the Punjab-based club saw them finish 8th in the 2023/24 season. In the Durand Cup, Dilmperis has handed out plenty of minutes to Indian youngsters like Nihal Sudeesh, Ashis Pradhan, Khaimingthang Lhungdim. Abhishek Singh and Nikhil Prabhu are also young but have already established themselves in the ISL last season and have continued to be key players for Punjab FC this season. 

Meanwhile, Ravi Kumar looks set to be #TheShers main man between the sticks. 

MATCH TICKETS

Get your tickets for our game against Punjab FC here: https://bit.ly/KBFCPFCTickets

#KeralaBlasters #KBFC #ISL #KBFCPFC

KBFC Transfer In’s and Outs: Summer 2024

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Kerala Blaster’s transfer business for Mikael Stahre’s side in the summer of 2024 can be tracked here:

ARRIVALS:

  1. Noah Sadaoui (Forward) – 2026
    The Moroccan Marvel, Noah Sadaoui, is an exciting addition to the Blasters’ forward line this season. He has a mouth-watering tally of 29 goals and 16 assists in 54 ISL appearances. He will bring immense experience and quality to the squad, and the potential link-up with Jimenez, Luna and Peprah is as exciting as it gets!
  2. Jesús Jiménez (Forward) – 2026
    Spanish forward Jesús Jiménez was one of the key signings of the window. Known for his clinical finishing and sharp movements, Jiménez is expected to spearhead Kerala Blasters’ attack, bringing both his experience and flair in the upcoming ISL season!
  3. Alexandre Coeff (Defender/Midfielder) – 2025
    The Frenchman brings in experience and versatility to the squad as he can operate comfortably both in central defense and midfield. He has played at the highest levels in Europe and will look to impose his qualities in the upcoming ISL season.
  4. R.Lalthanmawia (Midfielder) – 2027
    Lalthanmawia joined Kerala Blasters to inject speed, versatility and energy into the midfield. The young midfielder is known for his work ethic and technical skills, and he is expected to play a key role in the club.
  5. Nora Fernandes (Goalkeeper) – 2027
    The promising and athletic goalkeeper Nora Fernandes adds depth to the Blasters’ goalkeeping unit, ensuring strong competition for the starting position and reinforcing the club’s focus on long-term development.
  6. Som Kumar (Goalkeeper) – 2028
    Having gone through the youth ranks of football in Europe, Som is another signing with an eye on the future. He started majority of the matches in Durand Cup 2024, and has a steady head on his shoulder. He brings further depth to a goalkeeping unit that has progressed admirably under goalkeeping coach Slaven Progovecki.
  7. Likmabam Rakesh (Defender) – 2027
    Likmabam Rakesh, the versatile left-back from Manipur made an impact with his solid performances for NEROCA FC in the I-League and Durand Cup earned him a Kerala Blasters contract until 2027, Rakesh is currently out on loan to ISL club Punjab FC to ensure valuable game time and continued development.

CONTRACT EXTENSIONS:

  1. Adrian Luna (Midfielder) – 2027
    Club Captain and stalwart, Adrian Luna put pen-to-paper on a three-year contract extension until 2027. One of the most best and most consistent players in the league over the last few years, Luna has set the league alight with this creativity, passion and hardwork. His presence in the team till 2027 solidifies his place as a key figure of the KBFC family!
  2. Miloš Drinčić (Defender) – 2026
    Montenegrin defender Miloš Drinčić was rewarded with a contract extension until 2026 after his impressive performances during the 2023 season. Made Vice Captain for the upcoming ISL season, Drinčic’s towering presence, composure and leadership at the back is a welcome presence in the team.
  3. Sandeep Singh (Defender) – 2027
    Full-back Sandeep Singh, who has been a consistent performer for the club, has also extended his contract until 2027. His versatility and commitment to the Blasters’ defensive unit make him an invaluable member of the squad. Now into his 5th year at the Club, Sandeep is an example of hardwork, grit and leadership, especially to the younger core in the team.
  4. Naocha Singh (Defender) – 2025
    Since arriving on a loan deal last season, Naocha has made an impact as a full-back, strengthening the defensive line while also adding an attacking edge. His impressive performances have made him a regular starter, securing him a contract with the Club until 2025.
  5. Freddy Lallawmawma (Midfielder) – 2027
    Tough, hardworking, and reliable, Freddy offers the squad adeptness and adaptability in multiple positions in the midfield. Under new coach Mikael Stahre, Freddy has featured regularly having started in all Durand Cup 2024 matches.

PLAYERS LOANED

The Club has always been mindful of ensuring a clear and constructive player development pathway. Season after season, the younger players in the first-team and reserve squads have been offered chances on loan at other Clubs to ensure that game-time and experience. The following players have been loaned for the upcoming season:

Nihal Sudeesh – Punjab FC
Likmabam Rakesh – Punjab FC
Bikash Singh – Mohammedan SC
Mohammed Arbaz – Real Kashmir FC
Muhammad Ajsal (Forward) – Gokulam Kerala FC
Thomas Cherian (Defender)- Churchill Brothers

DEPARTURES:

  1. Karanjit Singh – out of contract
  2. Daisuke Sakai – out of contract
  3. Marko Leskovic – out of contract
  4. Dimitrios Diamantakos – out of contract
  5. Fedor Černych – out of contract
  6. Jeakson Singh – Transfer
  7. Aritra Das – Transfer

Kerala Blasters FC extends support to those affected by Wayanad Landslide in Kerala

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Thiruvananthapuram, September 10, 2024: In a gesture of support for families affected by the devastating natural disaster in Wayanad, Kerala Blasters FC has launched the ‘Goal for Wayanad’ campaign and additionally donated Rs. 25 lakhs to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Through the ‘Goal for Wayanad’ campaign, the Club plans to further contribute Rs 1 lakh for every goal scored in the upcoming Indian Super League Season 11 to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF), as part of the club’s continued efforts to contribute towards disaster relief and rehabilitation. This campaign and donation are in addition to the Rs. 1.25 Crore already contributed by the co-owners of Kerala Blasters FC.

Nimmagadda Prasad, Chairman, KBFC, along with Nikhil B. Nimmagadda, Director, KBFC, and Shushen Vashishth, Chief Operating Officer, KBFC, met with the Hon. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and handed over a cheque of Rs 25 lakhs. They also presented the Chief Minister with a KBFC jersey and extended an invitation for the upcoming season.

“We at Kerala Blasters FC have always prioritised the well-being of our community and remain dedicated to supporting the state during challenging times. These initiatives aim to motivate the football community to unite for a meaningful cause,” said Nikhil B. Nimmagadda.

Previously, during the Covid-19 period, the Club donated 500,000 Hydroxychloroquine Sulphate 200mg tablets to support frontline workers and provided 10,000 N95 masks to the Government of Kerala.  The Club also set up ‘Relief Material Collection Centres’ at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kaloor, Panampilly Nagar, and the Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium to aid flood relief efforts in 2018, besides significant contributions to the CMDRF. 

Nimmagadda Prasad, Chairman, KBFC, along with Nikhil B. Nimmagadda, Director, KBFC, handing over the KBFC jersey to the Hon. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Shushen Vashishth, Chief Operating Officer, KBFC, nearby. (From left)

Nimmagadda Prasad, Chairman, KBFC, along with Nikhil B. Nimmagadda, Director, KBFC, handing over the cheque of Rs 25 lakhs to the Hon. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Shushen Vashishth, Chief Operating Officer, KBFC, nearby. (From left)

Freddy Lallawmawma signs a contract extension until 2027

Posted on by KBFC-Media

The Club can confirm that midfielder Freddy Lallawmawma has signed a contract extension until 2027, with a further option to extend.

Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, said:

“I’m very pleased to have Freddy extend his commitment with us until 2027. He is a brave and commited player – that’s what we need here at Kerala Blasters. I hope Freddy keeps improving and gives us more and more every season.”

Since joining the Club last summer, Freddy has made 14 appearances for the Club. An injury kept him out of action temporarily midway through the 23/24 season.

Freddy has featured regularly in preseason matches and Durand Cup this season, under new Head Coach Mikael Stahre, showing his adeptness at playing multiple positions in midfield.

Freddy Lallawmawma said:
“I’m honored and excited to extend my journey with Kerala Blasters until 2027. The support from the fans and the club has been incredible and I’m committed to giving my all on the pitch for the Club.”

A defensive midfielder by trade, Lallawmawma is a player full of industry, tenacity, and hardwork.

Everyone at Kerala Blasters would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Freddy on his new contract and wish him every success during his time here.

Loan update

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kerala Blasters FC can confirm that the following players have been loaned for the upcoming season :

Likmabam Rakesh – Punjab FC
Bikash Singh – Mohammedan SC
Thomas Cherian – Churchill Brothers
Muhammad Ajsal – Gokulam Kerala FC
Mohammed Arbaz – Real Kashmir FC

The decision was made with a focus on providing ample game time and fostering the development of each individual involved. We wish them all the best for their respective loan stints!