Super League Kerala 2024: Forca Kochi FC rally to share spoils with Calicut FC

The visitors equalised after the hosts’ first-half opener to earn a well-deserved point.

The EMS Corporation Stadium in Calicut witnessed an electrifying atmosphere as Calicut FC took on Forca Kochi FC in the first match of the third round of Super League Kerala. After their recent victory against Malappuram FC at Manjeri, Calicut FC entered the game with boosted confidence and strong fan support in the galleries. The table toppers were keen to maintain their dominant position, aiming for another win in front of their home crowd.

Calicut FC’s recent form, along with the momentum from their last win, drew in a large and passionate crowd eager to see their team continue their impressive run. With Calicut leading the league standings, the pressure was on to secure another three points and tighten their grip on the top spot.

On the other hand, Forca Kochi FC, under the guidance of head coach Mario Lemos, arrived in Calicut with a determination to bounce back into the league after a challenging start. The team, eager to register a crucial win, was backed by traveling fans who once again showed their unwavering support from the stands.

Match Report

Forca Kochi FC started the match with a clear attacking mindset, fully aware of the importance of securing three points to mount a comeback in the league. Head coach Mario Lemos’ tactical approach troubled the Calicut FC players early on, as Kochi dominated the early phases of the game. Their pressing and ball control kept Calicut on the back foot, searching for a way to break Kochi’s rhythm.

However, the unwavering support from the home crowd at EMS Corporation Stadium gave Calicut FC a much-needed boost, helping them find their footing as the half progressed. While Kochi controlled possession, Calicut focused on exploiting counterattacking opportunities. Slowly, they began to test the Kochi defense, looking for openings in the few chances that came their way.

A 75th-minute strike from Forca Kochi FC's Phephelo cancels out Calicut FC's first-half opener to hand a point each to both sides ⚽#IndianFootball #keralafootball #SuperLeagueKerala pic.twitter.com/R2KaJBaAVu

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) September 18, 2024

As the first half neared its conclusion, Calicut found a breakthrough in the 42nd minute. A shot from Gani Ahmed, though not initially threatening, deflected off a Kochi defender, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and diving into the net. This stroke of fortune allowed Calicut FC to end the first half with a 1-0 lead, much to the delight of their fans.

Buoyed by their first-half lead, Calicut FC came out in the second half with renewed confidence. The goal just before the break gave them the momentum to control the game, and they started to dominate possession, creating more opportunities to extend their lead. However, Forca Kochi FC’s manager Mario Lemos was quick to react, making two crucial substitutions to inject fresh energy into his squad. South African forward Siyanda and midfielder Kamalpreet Singh were brought on to change the dynamic of the game.

The substitutions worked as planned, with Kochi’s attacks gaining intensity. The duo brought a new level of energy to the pitch, allowing Kochi to press higher and test Calicut’s defense more frequently. Kochi’s persistence paid off in the 75th minute when Siyanda, the fresh legs, delivered the equalizer with a well-taken strike. His goal not only silenced the home crowd but also reenergized Forca Kochi FC as they sought to complete their comeback.

The final minutes saw Kochi pushing hard for a winning goal, but Calicut FC, under the guidance of head coach Ian Andrew Gillan, were not ready to concede again. They held their defensive shape, withstanding wave after wave of Kochi attacks. Despite their best efforts, Forca Kochi FC had to settle for a point, once again leaving the EMS Corporation Stadium without a win.

Player of the Match

Ngubo Siyanda – Forca Kochi

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