Super League Kerala: Malappuram FC stun Thrissur Magic FC

Pedro Manzi’s brace steered Malappuram FC to an unchallenged victory.

In a decisive round-eight clash of the Super League Kerala, Malappuram FC secured their first home win of the season with a commanding 3-0 victory over Thrissur Magic FC at Payyanad Stadium.

The Super League Kerala’s pivotal eighth-round clash saw Thrissur Magic FC host Malappuram FC at the Payyanad Stadium in a high-stakes encounter. Both teams, sharing the same venue for their home matches, faced immense pressure going into this match, as they occupied the bottom of the points table. With their tournament hopes hanging in the balance, this fixture was a crucial “do-or-die” for both sides.

The tension was palpable as both Thrissur Magic and Malappuram fought hard to claim the vital three points needed to keep their campaigns alive.

Match Report

Both teams approached the game with utmost seriousness, and their attacking intent was evident right from the first minute. Malappuram FC’s manager, John Gregory, deployed Muhammed Jasim as a key winger, aiming to use his pace and creativity to deliver crosses into the center from the flank. Additionally, Gregory made a strategic decision by including Pedro Manzi in the starting lineup, recognizing the need for a clinical goal poacher in such a critical fixture.

On the other side, Thrissur Magic FC struggled to capitalize on their attacking opportunities, as Malappuram’s goalkeeper, Muhammed Sinan, put on a stellar performance. Sinan, in particular, stood out by denying several clear chances, including a crucial one-on-one situation, showcasing his immense value to the team in this must-win match.

The breakthrough finally came in the 45th minute, when Malappuram’s hero Pedro Manzi found the back of the net with a well-timed header, assisted by a pinpoint cross from Barboza. The goal gave Malappuram a 1-0 lead as the teams headed into halftime.

Manzi's brace ⚽⚽ powers Malappuram FC to a sweeping victory over hosts Thrissur Magic FC 🔥#IndianFootball #KeralaFootball #SuperLeagueKerala pic.twitter.com/f8hJX0MJFV

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) October 18, 2024

Malappuram FC remained resolute in their determination to secure a crucial victory over Thrissur Magic FC. They showed no signs of letting up in the second half, refusing to allow Thrissur to control the ball or build any momentum.

Pressing relentlessly, John Gregory’s men piled pressure on Scanu’s team, and their efforts paid off in the 53rd minute when a penalty was awarded. Thrissur defender Dany brought down Pedro Manzi inside the box, and Manzi calmly converted the spot-kick to double Malappuram’s lead.

Thrissur attempted to respond by making several tactical changes, but Malappuram’s dominance was unshakable. They controlled the game with ease, stifling any attempts by Thrissur to get back into the contest. As the final blow to Thrissur’s hopes, Alejandro Sanchez added a third goal for Malappuram, sealing their first home win of the season.

The 3-0 victory not only bolstered Malappuram’s chances of reaching the semifinals but also effectively shattered Thrissur’s dreams of finishing in the top four, marking a pivotal moment in both teams’ campaigns.

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