Super League Kerala 2025: Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC vs Calicut FC Preview, team news, lineups & prediction

Kombans need at least a draw to qualify for the Super League Kerala knockouts

The Super League Kerala is approaching its business end, as Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC will lock horns against the table toppers Calicut FC for the second matchday of the final round fixtures. The match is scheduled to kick off at the Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium on December 3rd.

With Calicut FC already securing their qualification for the playoffs, and the Kombans eying a draw to seal their spot in the semi-finals, the do-or-die clash between the Kombans and Calicut would definitely keep the fans on the edge of their seat.

The Stakes

Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC

Thiruvananthapuram Kombans, with three wins, three draws, and three losses, are currently placed in the fourth position with 12 points in hand. Though their current position ensures qualification to the playoffs, a loss in this match and a win for Malappuram FC in the final matchday would mean that the curtains are down for the capital side. Hence, the Kombans must approach this tournament most seriously and hope to get a positive result.

As of now, Kannur Warriors are ahead of the Kombans with 13 points. Therefore, even a draw would be enough for the Kombans to secure their spot in the playoffs, as they will overthrow the Warriors on goal difference. Hence, head coach James McAloon must deploy his best eleven for the match and eye the win, such that they could cement their third position and later face Thrissur Magic FC in the semi-final 2.

Calicut FC

Calicut FC, being the first team to qualify for the knockouts, have sealed their position at the top of the table with 20 points. The defending champions, having already sealed their berth in semi-final 1, will face the fourth-placed team, which will be determined in the course of the next two matches.

Calicut, being the team with nothing to lose, no matter what the result is against the Kombans, would be looking forward to keeping their core team safe to avoid any last-minute injury troubles, which would adversely affect them in the semi-finals.

Team News

Both Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC and Calicut FC are expected to have their full roster for their final Super League Kerala group stage match, as there are no major injury concerns or suspensions.

Player To Watch Out For

Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC – Paulo Victor

The Kombans’ versatile attacker, Paulo Victor, whose offensive flair and clinical finishing make him a constant threat in the final third, is the player to watch out for in the match against Thrissur. The 25-year-old Brazilian had a few brief stints across different leagues throughout his career. One thing that ran as a common thread among them is his determination and goal-hungry mentality, which the Kombans, spearheaded by James McAloon, can rely on.

Victor’s first impact for his side came in their home match against Forca Kochi, where he came in as a substitute and scored a late goal and secure the first win for the Kombans. In their previous match against Malappuram FC, Paulo once again found the back of the net in the second half, to bring the scores back to level terms and bag the crucial point for the Kombans. If Paulo could yet again display his offensive flair against the strong Calicut side, he could potentially lead his side to two consecutive playoffs.

Calicut FC – Muhammed Ajsal

Muhammed Ajsal, the loanee from Kerala Blasters, has been on a spectacular run in the league so far. The 22-year-old local boy has earned plaudits for the attacking flair. In the Super League Kerala 2025, Ajsal has been in top-notch form. He has had the final touch in almost half the number of goals scored by Calicut this season, and is currently leading the top of the Golden Boot race with six goals and an assist to his name.

Ajsal’s first two goals came in the match against Malappuram FC, where he defied all odds to score two consecutive goals to provide Calicut with an upper hand. In their away fixture against Forca Kochi, Ajsal showcased his gobsmacking potential as he scored a hat-trick to guide Calicut to a 6-2 victory. In their intense reverse fixture against Malappuram FC, Ajsal scored the second goal of the match to help his side earn the 3-1 victory. If Ajsal can continue his momentum against the Kombans, he could break the hearts and hopes of the South Coast Troopers.

Predicted Lineups

Thiruvananthapuram Kombans Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)

Satyajit (GK); Abdul Badish, Salam Ranjan Singh, Renan, Sarif; Ragav, Patrick Mota, Jasim; Ronald, Autemar Bispo, Muhammed Ashar

Calicut FC Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)

Hajmal (GK); Salim, Richard Osei, Manoj, Asif; Nahuel Pereyra, Arshaf, Federico Boasso; Muhammed Ajsal, Sebastian Rincorn, Prashant K.

When and where to watch Kannur Warriors FC vs Calicut FC in Super League Kerala?

The Super League Kerala 2025 match between Kannur Warriors FC and Calicut FC will be played on November 28, 2025, and will be live broadcast on Sony Sports Network and the sports.com website. Fans can watch the Super League Kerala match from 7:30 pm onwards all across India.

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