Super League Kerala: Kannur Warriors FC best Malappuram FC in seven-goal thriller

The hosts edged past the visitors in an end-to-end contest.

In an intense fixture of the Super League Kerala’s ninth and final round, Kannur Warriors hosted Malappuram FC at the EMS Corporation Stadium, where both teams were locked in a high-stakes battle for a spot in the semifinals. With passionate home support and a tense atmosphere, the importance of the match was palpable, as a place in the playoffs of the league’s inaugural edition hung in the balance.

Kannur Warriors, aiming to capitalize on their home-ground advantage, entered with strategic determination, while Malappuram FC approached the game with equal grit, knowing that every moment on the pitch could decide their fate in the tournament. From the opening whistle, the match showcased fierce competition, high-energy plays, and an array of skillful performances from both sides, capturing the spirit and intensity of Super League Kerala’s first season.

Match Report

In a high-energy face-off at the EMS Corporation Stadium, the home team Kannur Warriors stunned Malappuram FC and their supporters with an early breakthrough, seizing the lead just three minutes into the game. A well-orchestrated attack from the right flank saw Kannur striker Asier Gomes slot the ball into the net with precision, setting an aggressive tone for the match. Only five minutes later, Kannur doubled their lead with an impressive strike from Pragyan Sundar, sending their fans into an uproar.

These two early goals lit a spark in Malappuram FC, whose resilience surfaced as they regrouped to dominate play from the tenth minute onward. Under John Gregory’s tactical guidance, Malappuram pushed relentlessly for a comeback, utilizing both wings and relying on key attackers Pedro Manzi, Faslurahman, and Barbosa to keep the pressure on Kannur’s defense. Their efforts bore fruit as Faslurahman broke through from the right flank, advancing into the penalty area to score Malappuram’s first goal.

The Super League Kerala witnessed a goal fest ⚽ ⚽ ⚽ as Kannur Warriors ran out winners in a seven-goal thriller 🏁#IndianFootball #KeralaFootball #SuperLeagueKerala pic.twitter.com/S1aPCH07eb

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) October 27, 2024

Undeterred, Malappuram continued to press for an equalizer, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit. As the first half neared its end, an attempt by Kannur’s star goalkeeper Ajmal to block Malappuram’s offensive play led to an accidental handball just outside the penalty box. The resulting free-kick gave Malappuram captain Aitor Aldalir a prime scoring opportunity, which he expertly converted, bringing the score to 2-2 at halftime in what had already become a thrilling encounter.

The second half resumed with the same intensity, and it was Kannur Warriors who struck first. Just three minutes in, their prolific goal-scorer Adrian Serdinero netted a crucial goal in the 48th minute, pushing the home team into the lead once more.

Refusing to back down, Malappuram FC quickly responded as Barbosa, their star forward, leveled the score in the 52nd minute. The match escalated into an electrifying, end-to-end contest, with both teams showcasing relentless attacking play.

Amid the fierce exchanges, Kannur faced a setback when defender Munmun Timothy received a red card, reducing the team to ten men. However, Kannur’s resolve only strengthened, and they managed to regain control in the 79th minute when Alister found the net, putting them back in the lead.

Despite Malappuram’s efforts to equalize, Kannur Warriors held their ground, securing a thrilling victory on their home turf. This win not only delighted the home fans but also secured Kannur’s spot in the Super League Kerala semifinals, marking a successful culmination of an intense match.

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