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

Posted on by KBFC Admin Sporthood

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.

Full Circle: Salahudheen Adnan Returns to Kerala Blasters FC

Posted on by KBFC-Media-Manager

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.”

Welcome to the Blasters, Oumar

Posted on by KBFC-Media-Manager

Kerala Blasters FC are pleased to announce the arrival of Oumar Bah, strengthening the club’s defensive unit ahead of the new season.

Standing at 190 cm, Bah brings size, strength, and composure to the heart of defence. He is known for his aerial dominance, strong positional sense, and ability to organise the back line—qualities forged through years of competitive football in Europe.

The 31-year-old has featured across multiple European leagues, most notably in Spain, where he built a reputation as a reliable and physically commanding defender. His senior-level experience adds maturity and leadership to the squad.

Bah began his professional journey in European football and has featured for clubs including UE Vilassar de Mar, CE Europa, and Hapoel Nof HaGalil. Known for his commitment to duels and ability to read the game, he adds tactical versatility and resilience to our backline

Bah’s arrival underlines Kerala Blasters FC’s intent to add experience, steel, and defensive assurance, as the team prepares for the upcoming campaign.

Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC said:

“Oumar’s experience, his versatility and his ability to function as a modern day centre-back will hopefully be an asset for Kerala Blasters FC. I would like to wish him the very best for the season ahead.”

Oumar commented on his arrival:

“I’m very happy to join the Blasters, also I am ready for this new chapter in my career. I will do my best for my team.”

Víctor Bertomeu completes his move to the Blasters

Posted on by KBFC-Media-Manager

The Blasters have completed the signing of Spanish striker Víctor Bertomeu, who joins the club ahead of the upcoming Indian Super League season.

The centre-forward brings with him a strong blend of experience, physicality, and attacking intelligence, strengthening the Blasters’ options in the final third. Standing at 1.84m, Bertomeu is a commanding presence up front, known for his ability to occupy defenders, link play effectively, and finish clinically inside the box.

Bertomeu developed through the Spanish football system, featuring extensively in the country’s competitive lower divisions, where he built a reputation as a reliable goal scorer and a hard-working forward. His career has also seen him gain valuable experience in Asia, most notably in the Hong Kong Premier League, where he impressed with his movement, composure, and consistency across league and cup competitions.

Primarily a central striker, Bertomeu is also capable of operating across the frontline, offering tactical flexibility and a different attacking profile. His understanding of space, aerial ability, and work rate make him well-suited to lead the line and complement the Blasters’ attacking structure.

The Spanish forward will now link up with the squad as Kerala Blasters continue their preparations for the new campaign.

Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC said:

“Victor is a player who has acquired a wealth of experience in Spain and Asia, which will hopefully stand us in good stead. We hope that he can show our fans what he is all about up front and have a good season for the Blasters.”

Víctor shared his thoughts on signing for the Blasters:

“It’s an honour to sign for Kerala Blasters. I’ve heard a lot about the passion of the fans, and I can’t wait to feel that energy on the pitch. I’ll give everything for this badge. Vamos Kerala Blasters!”

Matías Hernández joins the Blasters

Posted on by KBFC-Media-Manager

The Blasters are pleased to announce the acquisition of Spanish midfielder Matías Hernández, a versatile defensive midfielder who joins the Club ahead of the upcoming Indian Super League season.

Hernández, born in Salamanca, Spain, stands at 1.86 m and is predominantly deployed as a Defensive Midfielder, with the versatility to operate as a Centre-Back or central midfielder when tactical demands require. His profile brings a balanced blend of physical presence, positional awareness and match management in the engine room. 

Managerial teams identified Hernández for his ability to shield the backline, break up opposition play, and facilitate forward transitions. His previous spell in India showcased his adaptability and commitment, qualities the Blasters expect to harness in controlling tempo and breaking lines through structured build-up. 

Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC said:

“In Matias, we have a player who has already acclimatised to Indian conditions, and gives us versatility in certain positions. We would like to wish him the best for the upcoming season.”

Matias expressed his thoughts:

“I’m delighted to join Kerala Blasters. I’m ready for this new challenge and fully committed to giving everything for the club, working hard every day, and helping the team achieve its goals.”

The Spanish midfielder will link up with the squad in Kochi as preparations intensify for the 2025-26 ISL season.

Blasters add French attacking flair – Welcome Kevin Yoke

Posted on by KBFC-Media-Manager

The Blasters are pleased to confirm the signing of French forward Kévin Yoke for the 2025–26 Indian Super League campaign.

The 29-year-old French international attacker, born 23 June 1996 in Clamart, France, primarily operates as a left winger but is equally capable on the right flank, offering versatility across the front line. Yoke — a product of the Paris Saint-Germain youth system — spent the majority of his career in competitive tiers of Greek football, notably with Levadiakos and PAE Chania, where he has honed his pace, crossing ability and direct attacking play. 

Tactical Profile and Attributes

Yoke’s playing style is defined by his ability to challenge defenders in wide areas, stretch opposition backlines and create goal-threatening scenarios from the flanks. Comfortable on both feet, he combines technical ball control with intelligent movement in transition, providing tactical variation tailored to The Blasters’ attacking philosophy. His experience in European systems equips him with positional adaptability — a quality that enhances the team’s forward dynamics. 

Strategic Fit for Kerala Blasters FC

The acquisition of Yoke aligns with Kerala Blasters FC’s broader strategy to blend youth and experience, strengthening attacking depth while maintaining structural balance throughout the squad. With a sharp focus on pace and creativity in the final third, Yoke’s addition is expected to augment the team’s offensive patterns and offer Head Coach David Català additional options in wide attacking rotations. 

Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC welcomed Kevin to the fold:

“We welcome Kevin to our Indian shores. It will be a good chance for him to show us all what he is about. I would like to wish him the very best for the season ahead.“

Kevin commented on his signing:

“I am very happy to join Kerala Blasters and can’t wait to meet the squad and get started. I am ready to give everything to meet the challenge that awaits us.”

Marlon signs for the Blasters

Posted on by KBFC-Media-Manager

The Blasters have secured the signing of German attacker Marlon Roos Trujillo, adding European pedigree and attacking intelligence to the squad ahead of the upcoming season.

Developed in one of Germany’s most competitive youth ecosystems, the 22-year-old arrives with a strong foundation shaped by elite academies, international youth football, and exposure to top-level development structures.

Elite Youth Background

Trujillo progressed through the youth ranks at Eintracht Frankfurt before spending the majority of his formative years at 1. FSV Mainz 05, where he featured prominently in the Youth Bundesliga and captained the club’s U-17 side. During this period, he was part of a generation that included Florian Wirtz, Karim Adeyemi, Jamal Musiala, Malik Tillman, and Nick Woltemade, competing at the highest level of German youth football.

He also lifted the Youth Bundesliga title, underlining his experience in high-pressure, title-winning environments.

International Recognition

Marlon’s development was further validated at international level, having represented Germany’s U-16, U-17, and U-18 national teams. His consistent inclusion across age groups reflects his technical quality, tactical understanding, and adaptability within elite systems.

Senior Experience and Playing Profile

An intelligent, forward-thinking attacker, Roos Trujillo is comfortable operating between the lines, linking midfield and attack with composure and awareness. He has since gained senior football experience in Europe, adding maturity and physicality to his game.

Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC said:

“In Marlon, we have a player with a good schooling and pedigree at the youth level. We hope he does well in India and is able to show his capabilities to our fans.”

Marlon shared his thoughts on joining the Blasters:

“I’m proud to join the Blasters and grateful for this opportunity. It’s an honor to join such a big club. Excited for this new chapter and ready to give everything on the pitch for the fans.”

Blasters sign Rowllin Borges

Posted on by KBFC-Media-Manager

Kerala Blasters FC are pleased to announce the signing of Indian international midfielder Rowllin Borges on a short-term contract, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2025/26 season.

A composed and tactically astute presence in midfield, Borges arrives with a reputation built on consistency at the highest level of Indian football. Known for his positional intelligence, work rate, and ability to dictate tempo, the 32-year-old adds experience and control to the Blasters’ midfield unit at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Borges has been a proven performer in the Indian Super League, having achieved the coveted domestic double—winning both the ISL Shield and the ISL Cup during his career. His understanding of high-pressure environments and title-winning demands brings valuable perspective to the squad.

At the international level, Borges has represented India with distinction, earning caps for the senior national team and featuring in major international competitions. His exposure to the international game has further refined his discipline, tactical awareness, and ability to execute specific roles within structured systems.

Over the years, Borges has been trusted in multiple midfield roles—whether shielding the defence, maintaining balance in transition, or offering leadership through his game intelligence rather than overt expression. His profile aligns with a player who prioritises team structure, control, and reliability.

Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC said:

“Rowllin has always been a player we have liked for his attributes on the pitch, but more than all those qualities, he is a proper professional who has played at the highest level for club and country. His experience and influence will definitely benefit our younger players, who can learn a lot from him.”

Rowllin expressed his intent on arrival:

“It’s a privilege to join a club of this stature. I’m here to contribute, to compete every day, and to help the team this season. I’m motivated to settle in quickly and make an impact.”

Suryadev TMT Appointed Official Associate Partner of Kerala Blasters FC

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kerala Blasters FC is pleased to announce its partnership with Suryadev TMT, who joins the club as an Official Associate Partner for the 2025-26 season. The collaboration marks a strategic partnership between one of India’s most passionate football clubs and a leading name in construction steel and TMT manufacturing.

This multi faceted association brings together Kerala Blasters FC and Suryadev TMT, a leading integrated steel manufacturer known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and building strong foundations for the future

Established in 2006, Suryadev has consistently set benchmarks in the steel industry through world-class manufacturing standards, certified processes, and a people-first approach. As part of this partnership, the club and Suryadev TMT will jointly undertake a series of fan-centric and community-driven initiatives, aimed at strengthening grassroots connections, engaging supporters meaningfully, and creating a positive impact beyond the pitch.

Kerala Blasters FC CEO, Abhik Chatterjee, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Suryadev TMT to the Kerala Blasters FC family. This partnership is built on shared values of strength, resilience, and long-term commitment. We appreciate Suryadev TMT’s support during a crucial period in the history of Indian football, and we look forward to working closely together to create meaningful engagements for our fans and contribute positively to football and the wider community in Kerala.”

Naman Agarwal, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO, Suryadev TMT said:

“Football is a unifying force, and this association aligns with our values of building strong foundations, on the pitch, in communities and across the state. Kerala Blasters FC is a club with a deep connection to its people, and that is what stood out to us. It allows us to be closer to the fans, understand the community and be part of something that goes beyond football. We are looking forward to engaging with supporters on the ground and contributing, in our own way, to initiatives that create value for Kerala.”

Karthik, Nustart Ventures, Bengaluru said:

“Bringing Kerala Blasters FC and Suryadev TMT together was built on strong alignment and mutual trust. Both brands share a long term vision and a clear focus on engaging with fans and communities. We are pleased to have facilitated this partnership and look forward to seeing it create value for all stakeholders.”

An update from #TheBlasters

Posted on by KBFC-Media

To the supporters and well-wishers of Kerala Blasters FC:

The Club confirms its participation in the upcoming Indian Super League which is slated to kickoff in February, 2026.

This decision has been taken after extensive discussions with the All India Football Federation and associated stakeholders. The Club thanks the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Hon. Sports Minister for the intervention and mediation in this matter.

We know that there will be numerous questions, concerns, and we are in the process of addressing and gaining clarity on several of these issues ourselves.

Indian football is undergoing a radical metamorphosis and will be subject to new economic, regulatory and sporting realities. The Blasters, will always prioritise to safeguard our present and work collaboratively with all the stakeholders to protect the future.

The Club shall release further information in a coordinated manner through appropriate channels very shortly, once we have cemented our approach and once we have received clarity on certain issues at hand.

We request for your support as always and for your continued patience and understanding.

ഐഎസ്എല്ലിൽ കേരള ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്‌സ് കളിക്കും; ഫെബ്രുവരിയിൽ തുടക്കം

വരാനിരിക്കുന്ന ഇന്ത്യൻ സൂപ്പർ ലീഗ് (ഐഎസ്എൽ) സീസണിൽ കേരള ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്‌സ് എഫ്.സി. പങ്കെടുക്കും. 2026 ഫെബ്രുവരിയിൽ സീസൺ ആരംഭിക്കാനാണ് നിലവിൽ തീരുമാനിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നത്.

ഓൾ ഇന്ത്യ ഫുട്ബോൾ ഫെഡറേഷനുമായും (എഐഎഫ്എഫ്) മറ്റ് അധികൃതരുമായും നടത്തിയ ചർച്ചകൾക്ക് ശേഷമാണ് ക്ലബ്ബ് പങ്കാളിത്തം ഉറപ്പാക്കിയത്. ഈ വിഷയത്തിൽ കൃത്യസമയത്ത് ഇടപെടുകയും ചർച്ചകൾക്ക് മധ്യസ്ഥത വഹിക്കുകയും ചെയ്ത കേന്ദ്ര കായിക മന്ത്രാലയത്തിന് ക്ലബ്ബ് നന്ദി അറിയിച്ചു.

നിലവിലെ സാഹചര്യങ്ങളിൽ ആരാധകർക്കുള്ള ആശങ്കകൾ ക്ലബ്ബ് തിരിച്ചറിയുന്നുണ്ട്. ചില പ്രധാന വിഷയങ്ങളിൽ കൂടുതൽ വ്യക്തത ലഭിക്കാനുണ്ട്. ഇതുമായി ബന്ധപ്പെട്ട കാര്യങ്ങൾ ക്ലബ്ബ് സജീവമായി പരിശോധിച്ചു വരികയാണ്.

ഇന്ത്യൻ ഫുട്ബോൾ വലിയ മാറ്റങ്ങളിലൂടെ കടന്നുപോകുന്ന സാഹചര്യത്തിൽ, കായികരംഗത്തിൻ്റെ ഭാവി മുൻനിർത്തി എല്ലാവരുമായും സഹകരിച്ച് മുന്നോട്ട് പോകാനാണ് ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്‌സിൻ്റെ തീരുമാനം. വിഷയങ്ങളിൽ കൂടുതൽ വ്യക്തത ലഭിക്കുന്ന മുറയ്ക്ക് വരും ദിവസങ്ങളിൽ കൂടുതൽ വിവരങ്ങൾ ഔദ്യോഗികമായി അറിയിക്കും.

ക്ലബ്ബ് നേരിടുന്ന ഈ സാഹചര്യത്തിൽ നൽകുന്ന പിന്തുണയ്ക്കും കാണിക്കുന്ന ക്ഷമയ്ക്കും ആരാധകരോടും മറ്റ് പങ്കാളികളോടും കേരള ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്‌സ് നന്ദി രേഖപ്പെടുത്തുന്നു.

Blasters Reserves qualify for RFDL Zonals

Posted on by KBFC-Media

The Blasters Reserves have booked their place in the Zonal Rounds of the Reliance Foundation Development League after navigating a competitive group-stage campaign with composure and character.

Drawn in a challenging group alongside Kovalam FC, Real Malabar FC, PFC Kerala, Kerala United FC, and SAI Kollam, the Blasters youngsters were tested across five matches that demanded consistency, resilience, and maturity beyond their years.

The campaign began in emphatic fashion as the Reserves opened with a commanding 5–0 victory over Kovalam FC, setting an early tone and underlining the attacking intent within the squad. While results in the following fixtures did not always go their way, the performances remained encouraging. Narrow defeats against Real Malabar FC (1–0) and PFC Kerala (2–1) were decided by fine margins, with the side continuing to compete with discipline and belief.

That resolve came to the fore in the latter stages of the group. A hard-fought 3–2 win against Kerala United FC proved pivotal, before the Blasters rounded off their group-stage journey with a confident 4–1 victory over SAI Kollam to seal qualification for the next phase of the competition.

Under the guidance of Amit Rana, Head of Youth Development, the Reserves demonstrated a strong collective mindset throughout the campaign. The focus remained firmly on development, game understanding, and executing the club’s playing principles, even in moments of adversity.

This qualification reflects the steady progress being made within Kerala Blasters FC’s youth system. The club continues to prioritise the long-term growth of young players, providing them with competitive environments that prepare them for the next step in their footballing journey.

As the Reserves move into the Zonal Rounds, the emphasis will remain unchanged: learn, compete, and continue building towards the future—one performance at a time.