Super League Kerala: Calicut FC stage dramatic last-gasp win over Forca Kochi FC

The visitors took home all three points thanks to Rafael Dos Santos’ late strike.

The Super League Kerala continued to heat up as Forca Kochi FC took on Calicut FC in a highly anticipated Round 8 fixture at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. With the competition entering a critical stage, both teams came into the match with their eyes firmly set on securing crucial points, adding even more intensity to the proceedings.

The electric atmosphere at the stadium was a testament to the growing excitement in the league, with a sea of passionate fans from both Kochi and Calicut filling the stands. Forca Kochi’s loyal fan club, Forca Cruz, was in full voice, rallying behind their team, while Calicut FC supporters added their own energy to the charged environment, creating a thrilling backdrop for the contest.

As the tension on the pitch mirrored the stakes of the ongoing tournament, both teams demonstrated their determination to make a mark. Forca Kochi FC, playing on home turf, aimed to use their advantage to climb up the table, while Calicut FC, known for their resilient performances, looked to maintain their momentum in the league.

With every match growing in importance as the season progresses, the clash between Forca Kochi and Calicut FC was another vital chapter in the thrilling narrative of Super League Kerala.

Match Report

On an intense evening at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Forca Kochi FC manager Mario Lemos was determined to secure a crucial home victory against Calicut FC. His team took control from the start, dominating possession and frequently threatening Calicut’s goal. Forward Dorielton led Kochi’s relentless attacks, pressing repeatedly into the opposition’s box, but Calicut’s goalkeeper Vishal stood tall, making crucial saves to keep the scoreline level.

Despite the return of captain Jijo to Calicut’s squad after missing a few matches, the visitors struggled to make an impact in the first half. Their inability to break through Kochi’s pressing game left them largely on the back foot. However, despite Kochi’s dominance, they couldn’t find the net, and the first half ended in a goalless stalemate, with both teams locked at 0-0.

Calicut FC leave it late as Resende's strike seals all three points for the visitors ⚡ ⚽#IndianFootball #keralafootball #superleaguekerala pic.twitter.com/v0H5tYnPD8

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) October 20, 2024

The second half saw a transformed Calicut side as they shifted to a more attacking approach. Both teams engaged in a thrilling end-to-end contest, with each side making multiple visits to the opponent’s box. Fans were treated to a nail-biting spectacle as chances flowed for both teams, creating an electrifying atmosphere inside the stadium.

As the match seemed destined for a draw, Calicut’s substitute forward Rafael dos Santos, who came on in the second half, produced a moment of brilliance. In the dying moments of extra time, he unleashed a screamer past the Kochi defense, sealing a dramatic win for the visitors. Calicut’s late winner not only secured the victory but also ensured they remained unbeaten in the Super League Kerala, much to the disappointment of the home crowd.

The win not only continued Calicut FC’s unbeaten streak but also confirmed their place in the semi-finals of the inaugural season of the Super League Kerala. For Forca Kochi FC, it was a heartbreaking result, having controlled large parts of the game but failing to find the back of the net. Calicut, on the other hand, walked away with three points and a confirmed berth in the next stage of the competition.

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