Kerala Blasters FC

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.

Arsh signs for the Blasters

Kerala Blasters is pleased to confirm the signing of talented young goalkeeper Arsh Anwer Shaikh on a three-year deal, committing his future to the club until 2028.

Arsh is widely regarded as one of the most promising goalkeepers in the country. He joins the Blasters from Mohun Bagan Super Giant, where he developed into a dependable presence within the squad and gained valuable experience in prestigious domestic and continental competitions, including the Indian Super League, Durand Cup, Super Cup and AFC Cup.

Born in Chhattisgarh, Arsh has steadily progressed through Indian football’s competitive landscape with a calm and mature presence between the sticks. Known for his strong reflexes, composure under pressure and ability to organize his defence, he brings a confident and ambitious mindset to the Blasters setup.

On the signing, Abhik Chatterjee, CEO of Kerala Blasters FC, said:

“We are focused on assembling a team that understands our long-term vision as well as our competitive goals. Strengthening our goalkeeping department is a key part of that process, and bringing in a young, talented goalkeeper like Arsh is a step in that direction.

We see him as someone who can develop with us and be a part of the bigger project we are working on at this club. We believe in his potential. Our focus remains on investing in promising Indian players who can become the backbone of our future.”

Sharing his thoughts on Arsh’s arrival, Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director of Kerala Blasters FC, said:

“Arsh is a young goalkeeper with good natural talent. He has strong fundamentals, a good mentality, and stays calm under pressure. We believe his arrival will increase the competition in our goalkeeping group, which is important for pushing everyone to a higher level. He has a profile that we liked, and we are confident he can develop well with us and become an important part of the squad.”

Arsh said:

“I’m really happy to join Kerala Blasters FC. This club is from a place where football is loved deeply, and I have always seen how passionate the fans are. Also, I’m looking forward to this new chapter in my career. I believe this is the right environment for me to learn, gain more experience and grow as a player. I will work hard every day and give my best to help the team in any way I can.”

Arsh becomes our second signing of the summer transfer window, following the arrival of Amey Ranawade. He will add further strength to a goalkeeping unit that includes Sachin Suresh and Nora Fernandes, who joined the club last season.

Blasters announce Activbase as ‘Official Rehabilitation Partner’

Kerala Blasters is delighted to announce a strategic three-year partnership with Activbase, a pioneering organisation in sports and orthopaedic rehabilitation based in Kochi. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the club’s commitment to enhancing player care, injury management and overall physical wellness.

Through this partnership, Activbase will work hand-in-hand with the Kerala Blasters medical and performance departments, supporting them with state-of-the-art equipment, advanced practices and modern methodologies in sports injury rehabilitation, orthopaedic recovery and athletic conditioning.

The goal is to strengthen further the club’s already capable medical setup, ensuring world-class support for players both on and off the pitch.

Activbase, with its deep-rooted vision of transforming rehabilitation and fitness landscapes in India, brings a holistic approach to wellness. The organisation specialises in providing integrated healthcare and fitness solutions, combining the science of movement with modern therapeutic methods to serve not just athletes, but individuals from all walks of life.

Speaking on the collaboration, CEO of Kerala Blasters FC, Abhik Chatterjee said:

“As the Indian football calendar continues to grow and the demands on players increase, it’s essential that we stay ahead by constantly upgrading our systems. We are committed to creating a high-performance environment where our players receive the best possible care.

Our partnership with Activbase is a major step in that direction, it reflects our intent to strengthen the club’s medical and rehabilitation setup in a way that supports long-term player health and peak performance. This collaboration is not just about addressing today’s needs, but about building a future-ready club that can compete at the highest level, season after season.

It is heartening to see the vision for such facilities gradually coming to the fore in Kochi, which bodes well for the general sports ecosystem within the state.”

Speaking on the collaboration, Managing Partner of Activbase, Dr. Anas Kollancheri, MPT 

“Activbase is proud to announce our official partnership with Kerala Blasters FC as their Official Rehabilitation Partner. We are thrilled to associate with one of India’s premier football clubs and support their journey with our expertise in orthopaedic rehabilitation, sports injury management, and athlete recovery.

Activbase is India’s most advanced centre specialising in Musculoskeletal injuries and pain management, post-surgery rehabilitation – featuring a Pain lab, High performance lab, aquatic therapy, with protocols unique for each individual – athletes, non-athletes, elders, etc. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to elevate sports recovery standards and empower athletes to perform at their peak.”

This partnership reflects Kerala Blasters FC’s broader commitment to professionalism, player welfare and long-term sustainability. As the club continues to grow on and off the field, initiatives like this underline the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports not just performance, but the overall wellbeing of its athletes.

Blasters Sign Right Back Amey Ranawade

Kerala Blasters Football Club is pleased to confirm the arrival of right-back Amey Ranawade on a five-year deal that will keep him at the club until May 2030. The 27-year-old joins from Odisha FC, where he concluded the 2024-25 Indian Super League season on loan from Mumbai City FC.

Ranawade featured prominently last season, appearing in 22 ISL matches, starting 18 and clocking 1,675 minutes. His attacking prowess was matched by defensive solidity. He won 48 duels, made 20 successful tackles and completed 49 recoveries, while also contributing 16 chances created. In the 2023–24 season, he delivered 7 goal contributions from defence. His pace, stamina and pinpoint crosses consistently boosted Odisha’s attack while maintaining strong defensive performances. He was a key contributor to Odisha FC’s historic run to the ISL playoffs in 2023-24.

Born in Mumbai, Ranawade was developed through the AIFF Elite Academy and made his ISL breakthrough with FC Goa before signing for Mumbai City FC in 2020. He was part of their double-winning squad in 2020-21 and also claimed another Shield in 2022–23.

Internationally, Ranawade represented India at the U-17 and U-19 levels, showcasing his potential at a young age. He is known for his tactical intelligence, ability to read the game and willingness to support attacks without compromising defensive duties.

Speaking about the signing, CEO of Kerala Blasters FC, Abhik Chatterjee said:


“Amey is a modern fullback who will definitely add value to how we want to play at Kerala Blasters Football Club. He was always passionate about joining our project and I am glad that he could be afforded the opportunity to contribute to what we want to achieve in the immediate future. Having known him, I am sure he will bring determination, hard work, and his relentless energy to the pitch.”

Sporting Director Karolis Skinkis added:


“I’m glad Amey took the decision to accept our offer. I see him as one of the best players in his position in the ISL, especially in attacking actions. We are looking forward to his contributions with Kerala Blasters. I hope he has a season that will help him break into the Indian national team.”

Amey Ranawade shared his thoughts after signing:


“I’m proud and excited to join Kerala Blasters FC. I have always admired the passion surrounding this club and I genuinely believe in the project being built here. I express my gratitude to the management for their confidence in me. This is a big opportunity and responsibility to represent Kerala Blasters. I am fully committed to giving my best every single day to help the team succeed.”

Ranawade is the club’s first signing this summer. The entire Kerala Blasters FC family welcomes Amey and looks forward to witnessing his dynamism on the right flank in yellow and blue.

Kerala Blasters welcomes SIX5SIX back as Official Kitting and Apparel Partner

Kerala Blasters FC is proud to welcome back SIX5SIX as the club’s Official Kitting and Apparel Partner on a two-year deal starting from the 2025-26 season.

This renewed partnership marks a return to a trusted collaboration, with SIX5SIX having previously served as the club’s kit partner during the 2018-19, 2021-22, 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons. The brand’s distinct design approach and fan-centric ethos have consistently resonated with the Blasters faithful, making their return a natural fit.

Commenting on the association, Abhik Chatterjee, CEO of Kerala Blasters FC, said:

“We are thrilled to collaborate once again with SIX5SIX, a company that values quality, originality and connection with fans as much as we do. A club’s kit is an important symbol of its identity and given SIX5SIX’s history, we are producing something that both our players and supporters will be proud to wear. We are basing this year’s theme around our state and its culture.”

Avni Aneja, Co-Founder and Creative Director of SIX5SIX, added:

“The only word that comes to mind when we talk about this collaboration between SIX5SIX and KBFC is homecoming. We’re thrilled to be back and have the opportunity to create something truly iconic and special once again – something that resonates with both players and fans equally. Can’t wait to show what we’ve got in store for 2025- it’s going to be one for the books.”

SIX5SIX, based in Delhi, has quickly become one of India’s most recognisable sportswear brands. With experience working alongside IPL teams, the Indian National Football Team, leading ISL clubs, and international outfits, their return to Kerala Blasters underscores a shared vision for innovation and excellence.

Sushil Jaiswal, Business Head of SIX5SIX, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to rejoin hands with Kerala Blasters FC — it truly feels like coming back home. The Blasters represent passion, resilience, and a deep-rooted football culture that aligns perfectly with our ethos at Six5Six Sport.

Our journey together has always been special, and we’re excited to once again bring innovation, style, and performance to the club and its massive fanbase. Together, we’re ready to write the next chapter in this iconic partnership.”

Kerala Blasters FC and Global Institute of Sports Business Announce Strategic Partnership to Build India’s Next Generation of Sports Professionals

Kerala Blasters FC (KBFC), one of India’s most iconic football clubs, has announced a strategic partnership with the Global Institute of Sports Business (GISB), India’s premier sports management institute.

The affiliation aims to nurture the next-generation of sports professionals by combining GISB’s industry-designed, experiential education with KBFC’s deep expertise in the evolving Indian football ecosystem. Students will benefit from first-hand industry exposure, while the club will play an instrumental role in mentoring and shaping future talent across various domains of sports management.

“At Kerala Blasters, we believe in investing not just in talent on the pitch, but also in the future which will shape Indian football. Our partnership with GISB is a step towards building a stronger ecosystem—one that nurtures the next generation of sports professionals and leaders. Together, we’re laying the groundwork for a more progressive, innovative, and inclusive footballing future,” said Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC.

As part of this collaboration, GISB students will gain hands-on experience through real-time projects, mentorship from KBFC professionals, and exclusive internship opportunities within the club. Additionally, specially curated learning programs—co-developed by GISB and powered by KBFC’s on-ground experience—will be made accessible to young learners and fans across India. These programs will bring practical, industry-led education to the forefront of sports learning in the country.

“Our partnership with Kerala Blasters FC is a significant step in shaping the future of Indian sport. By bringing together GISB’s academic excellence and the experience of one of India’s top football clubs, we aim to equip future sports professionals—especially those emerging from the passionate Kerala football ecosystem, with opportunities needed to become the next generation of leaders and managers,” said Gaurav Modwel, Chancellor,  GISB.

This partnership also represents a shared commitment to engaging and empowering the passionate fan base of Kerala Blasters FC, one of the most devoted football communities in India. Through tailored learning initiatives, fan-focused programs, and digital education experiences, GISB and KBFC aim to bring sports education closer to the fans. By transforming loyal supporters into informed participants in the sports industry, this collaboration opens new pathways for fans to transition from the stands to meaningful roles behind the scenes—ultimately strengthening the ecosystem that fuels Indian football.

For the thousands of young Indians dreaming of turning their passion for sport into their profession, this collaboration offers more than just an education—it provides access to the inner workings of the sports business. From marketing and fan engagement to analytics and club operations, students will get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how elite football organisations function.

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About the Global Institute of Sports Business (GISB) 

The Global Institute of Sports Business (GISB) is a cutting-edge sports management institute designed to bridge the gap between education and industry. With an experiential learning approach, GISB focuses on equipping students with practical knowledge, hands-on experience, and direct industry engagement to enhance employability and drive impact in the sports sector.

At the core of GISB’s offerings is its flagship Post-Graduate Program in Sports Management—a full-time, immersive, and industry-focused course tailored to the business of sport. Designed by global sports industry veterans, the program ensures that students gain not only essential tools, insights, and expertise but also unparalleled access to industry employers and professional networks.

Admissions for the 2025 cohort are now open in Mumbai and Bengaluru. For more information, visit www.gisbindia.com

Kerala Blasters FC Set for High-Stakes Kalinga Super Cup Quarter-Final Against Mohun Bagan Super Giant

The Kalinga Super Cup 2025 has reached its business end, with eight teams battling it out for top honours. Kerala Blasters FC are gearing up for a high-octane quarter-final clash against Mohun Bagan Super Giant on Friday, April 26, at 4:30 PM IST at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

Fresh from a statement 2-0 win over defending champions East Bengal FC, the Blasters have laid down an early marker. Under the guidance of new head coach David Català, the side looked organised, energetic, and tactically assured. Goals from Jesús Jiménez and Noah Sadaoui were the highlights of a balanced performance that combined attacking efficiency with defensive discipline.

With Català’s system starting to take shape, the Blasters will look to build on their momentum and shift the narrative from their recent meetings with MBSG. The presence of experienced attackers like Danish Farooq, Noah Sadaoui, and Jesús Jiménez offers cutting edge up front, while stability in midfield and a well-coordinated backline will be key to holding their shape against quality opposition.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant come into the tournament on the back of a historic ISL double, winning both the shield and the ISL Cup last season, but their approach to the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 is markedly different. The Mariners have opted to rest most of their regulars, travelling with a youthful squad filled with promising talents from their reserves and developmental ranks.

While this offers valuable exposure to MBSG’s emerging stars, it also opens a window of opportunity for the Blasters, who bring greater experience, cohesion, and match sharpness into this knockout contest.

Quarter-Final Fixture
Date: Friday, April 26, 2025
Kick-off Time: 4:30 PM IST
Venue: Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
Live On: JioHotStar & Star Sports 3

MATCH REPORT: KERALA BLASTERS FC 2-0 EAST BENGAL FC

Kerala Blasters FC delivered a commanding performance to eliminate defending champions East Bengal FC with a 2-0 win in the Round of 16 of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025. The victory marks a strong start to the David Català era, setting up a high-stakes quarter-final showdown with Mohun Bagan Super Giant on April 26.

Under the guidance of new head coach, the Blasters looked organised, intense, and dynamic from the outset. With Adrian Luna pulling the strings in midfield and Danish Farooq operating just behind the striker, the Blasters started to impose themselves early in the contest.

It took just two minutes for KBFC to carve out their first chance. A swift move down the right saw Noah Sadaoui square the ball to Jesus Jimenez, but the Spaniard couldn’t make the crucial connection.

Noah remained a constant menace on the flank. In the 34th minute, the nimble footed winger delivered another teasing ball to Jesus inside the box, who fired it over the bar.

The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when Sadaoui was brought down by Anwar Ali inside the box. Although opposition keeper Prabsukhan Singh Gill saved Jimenez’s initial penalty, but a retake was ordered by the referee. Jimenez made no mistake second time around.

East Bengal nearly found an equaliser before half-time when PV Vishnu’s drive rattled the post, but Messi Bouli was unable to convert the rebound, allowing the Blasters a slender one goal advantage heading into the halftime break.

The Blasters resumed the second half with the same intensity, maintaining good possession through the midfield while also creating multiple chances in the final third.

Then came the moment of the match. In the 64th minute, Noah Sadaoui picked up the ball from range and unleashed a stunning left-footed strike that crashed off the crossbar and over the line, a thunderbolt that left the stadium in awe and the Blasters two goals to the good.

Blasters as a unit managed the remainder of the game with maturity and tactical discipline. The backline, marshalled efficiently by the defence, gave East Bengal little room to operate, nullifying all their attacking threats.

Noah came close to adding a third in the final moments of the game, but his attempt at goal sailed over. In the end, Blasters sealed the game with a comfortable 2-0 victory over the Torch Bearers.

GOALS

40’ Jesus Jimenez 

64’ Noah Sadaoui 

SUBSTITUTIONS

46’ IN : Aiban Dohling → OUT: Hormipam Ruivah  

57’ IN : Freddy Lallawmawma → OUT : Adrian Luna  

71’ IN :  Kwame Peprah, Muhammed Saheef → OUT: Jesus Jimenez, Danish Farooq  

89’ IN : Sreekuttan MS → OUT : Vibin Mohanan

Kerala Blasters FC Set for Kalinga Super Cup Opener Against East Bengal FC

Kerala Blasters FC kick off their 2025 Kalinga Super Cup campaign with a high-stakes Round of 16 encounter against defending champions East Bengal FC at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Sunday, April 20.

Both teams arrive at this fixture after narrowly missing out on the ISL playoffs, eager to start afresh in the knockout-style format of the Kalinga Super Cup this year. For the Blasters, this marks the first competitive outing under newly appointed head coach David Català, who has overseen rigorous preparations in Kochi over the past few weeks. With no room for error, the side will look to hit the ground running and make a statement.

East Bengal FC, under the guidance of Oscar Bruzon, will be without key players Hijazi Maher (injured) and Cleiton Silva (released). Despite the absentees, the Red and Gold brigade remain a formidable unit, who will be aiming to defend their title with intent.

Speaking ahead of his first match in charge, Català said: “I know that they are the defending champions from last season. That’s it for sure. Both teams will go for a win in the match. And it’s going to be a passionate game.”

Key Players & Tactical Outlook

Blasters will rely on their attacking trio, Adrián Luna, Noah Sadaoui, and Jesús Jiménez to deliver creativity, movement, and goals in the final third. Their link-up play could prove decisive in breaking down East Bengal’s defense.

In midfield, the presence of Vibin Mohanan could determine how effectively the Blasters control possession and dictate the game’s tempo. The ability to win the ball in the midfield and launch transitions will be critical in a knockout contest.

Head-to-Head This ISL Season

– In Kochi, Kerala Blasters edged East Bengal 2-1, with goals from Noah Sadaoui and Kwame Peprah.

– In the reverse fixture in Kolkata, East Bengal claimed a 2-1 win.

This being Català’s first competitive fixture in charge of the squad, the whole unit will be determined to make a strong first impression under his leadership. With the hunger to bounce back, the Blasters will look to make their presence felt from the outset.

Where & When to Watch

Date: Saturday, April 20, 2025

Kick-Off : 8:00 PM IST

Venue: Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar

Live On : JioHotstar

Kerala Blasters Announce 27-Man Squad for Kalinga Super Cup 2025

Kerala Blasters FC have officially unveiled their 27-man squad for the upcoming Kalinga Super Cup 2025, marking the beginning of a new chapter under recently appointed Head Coach David Català.

The team has been undergoing intensive training sessions in Kochi following the conclusion of their Indian Super League (ISL) campaign, focusing on integrating Català’s tactical approach and building up towards the tournament. Since his arrival, the Spanish tactician has had a valuable few weeks to assess the squad, gel with the players, and prepare for the challenges ahead.

The Blasters are set to face defending champions East Bengal FC in the tournament’s opening match on April 20 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. This encounter will be a significant test for Català and his squad as they aim to make a strong impression in this knockout-style competition.

Kerala Blasters Squad for Kalinga Super Cup 2025

Goalkeepers:

1. Sachin Suresh

2. Kamaljit Singh

3. Alsabith ST

4. Muhammed Jaseen

Defenders:

5. Hormipam Ruivah

6. Bikash Yumnam

7. Milos Drinčić

8. Dušan Lagator

9. Naocha Singh

10. Aibanbha Dohling

11. Muhammed Saheef

12. Sandeep Singh

Midfielders:

13. Vibin Mohanan

14. Danish Farooq

15. Freddy Lallawmawma

16. Adrián Luna

17. Mohammed Azhar

18. Yoihenba Meitei

19. Ebindas Yesudasan

20. Korou Singh

21. Mohammed Aimen

22. Renthlei Lalthanmawia

Forwards:

23. Jesús Jiménez

24. Kwame Peprah

25. Noah Sadaoui

26. Ishan Pandita

27. Sreekuttan MS

The Kalinga Super Cup 2025 will follow a single-elimination format featuring 16 teams, including 13 clubs from the ISL and 3 clubs from the I-League. The tournament is set to run from April 20 to May 3, with all matches hosted at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Kalinga Super Cup 2025.

Kerala Blasters FC Launches ‘Say No To Drugs’ Campaign as Part of Yellow Heart Initiative

Kerala Blasters FC is proud to launch the ‘Say No To Drugs’ campaign – a powerful call to action aimed at eradicating drug and substance abuse from our society. As alarming instances of drug-related crimes, tragic deaths, and cases of immense social impact become increasingly common across Kerala, this campaign stands as a united front against the growing menace.

This campaign was born as a result of a strong recommendation from the newly instated Fan Advisory Board (FAB) members, who stressed on the importance of community engagement to make a genuine difference.

Under the larger umbrella of our Yellow Heart initiative, this campaign is not just a message, but a movement with which we aim to amplify awareness, educate the public, and empower communities with the knowledge and tools needed to combat drug abuse. Through real-life stories, recovery methods, and preventative education, we seek to guide individuals and families towards a healthier and safer path.

This is a collective mission. The entire Blasters family – players, and supporters – are invited to join hands and lend their voices to this vital cause. Whether by spreading the message, participating in awareness activities, or simply taking a pledge, every effort counts.

The ‘Say No To Drugs’ campaign will be a cornerstone in Kerala Blasters’ community outreach efforts. It reflects our deep-rooted commitment to the people of Kerala and our determination to create a positive, lasting impact beyond the football field. We believe that change starts with each of us, and together, we can build a future free from the shadows of drug abuse. Let’s rise, stand together, and say it loud – Say No To Drugs.