Super League Kerala 2024: Calicut FC thrash Malappuram FC in historic clash

The hosts failed to trouble the visitors, conceding thrice without reply.

The Super League Kerala 2024 witnessed a historic moment as the highly anticipated first-ever Malabar Derby unfolded between Malappuram FC and Calicut FC at the packed Manjeri Payyanad Stadium, Malappuram. This monumental clash marked the first home game for Malappuram FC, adding to the excitement and significance of the encounter.

The derby is steeped in the rich footballing traditions of the Malabar region, where the sport has been passionately followed for generations. This historic face-off saw two footballing giants of the region battle it out on one of the biggest stages in Kerala football, with both teams hungry to claim victory in front of a raucous home crowd.

Malappuram FC entered the match riding high on their confidence, having secured an opening-day victory over Forca Kochi FC in the league’s inaugural match. On the other side, Calicut FC, led by head coach Ian Andrew Gillan, came into this fixture seeking their first win of the season after a hard-fought draw against Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC earlier in the week.

The atmosphere inside the Manjeri Payyanad Stadium was electric, with around 15,000 passionate football fans packing the stands. The crowd, buzzing with energy, provided a stunning backdrop for this iconic fixture.

The Malappuram fans, known for their vocal support and unrelenting love for the game, filled the stadium with deafening cheers and colorful banners, creating a carnival-like atmosphere. The Calicut FC supporters weren’t far behind, traveling in numbers to back their team in the high-stakes derby.

Match report

The first half of the Malabar Derby between Malappuram FC and Calicut FC saw an intriguing tactical battle unfold at the Manjeri Payyanad Stadium. Malappuram FC, under the strategic guidance of head coach John Gregory, had clearly planned to dominate possession in the opening minutes, working hard to maintain control of the ball. Their intention was to hold the ball in their half, patiently building their play while frustrating Calicut’s attempts to gain possession.

Despite Malappuram’s initial control, Calicut FC gradually found their rhythm and started to press higher up the field. Their persistence paid off in the 22nd minute, when Gani Ahammed capitalized on a defensive lapse and chipped the ball brilliantly over Malappuram goalkeeper Midhun, giving Calicut the lead.

Following the goal, Malappuram FC responded with urgency, turning to their key player Fasalurahman, who caused trouble for Calicut’s defense with his dynamic runs down both flanks. However, Calicut’s defenders, led by a resolute backline, remained composed and repeatedly cleared the ball from danger, preventing Malappuram from finding the equalizer before the half-time whistle.

The second half saw Malappuram FC come out with renewed determination, making key changes to their lineup in an effort to turn the game around. Despite their energetic start, Calicut FC gradually regained control of the match, dictating the pace and exploiting opportunities.

Calicut FC overpower Malappuram FC, scoring a breathless barrage of goals without reply😮‍💨#IndianFootball #keralafootball #SuperLeagueKerala pic.twitter.com/lBQDmeHhsR

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) September 14, 2024

The turning point came in the 62nd minute, when Calicut FC’s iconic star, Kervens Belfort, found the back of the net with a well-placed shot, doubling Calicut’s lead. The goal sent the Calicut supporters into a frenzy, while Malappuram FC, determined not to disappoint their home fans, launched an all-out attack in search of a comeback.

However, Calicut FC, now full of confidence, remained solid in defense and poised to secure their first win of the season. As the game neared its conclusion, Gani Ahammed sealed the victory for Calicut with his second goal of the match during additional time, completing a memorable performance.

With this 3-0 triumph, Calicut FC registered their first-ever win in the Super League Kerala, and that too in the highly anticipated Malabar Derby at the Payyanad Stadium, Manjeri.

Player of the Match

Gani Ahmmed Nigam – Calicut FC

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