Kozhikode, September 13, 2024:The Super League Kerala 2024 resumed with a high-stakes clash between Kannur Warriors FC and Forca Kochi FC at the iconic EMS Corporation Stadium, Calicut. This match marked the start of the highly anticipated second round of the league.
Kannur Warriors FC entered the fixture brimming with confidence after their last-minute win over Magic Thrissur FC last week. Playing on their home turf, they were keen to build on their momentum. On the other hand, Forca Kochi FC, led by Portuguese manager Mario Lemos, approached the match as a crucial opportunity to stage a comeback in the league after a difficult start to their campaign.
The dedication of the fans added to the thrilling pre-match build-up. Kochi fans, known for their passionate support, traveled in large numbers to Calicut, transforming the away section into a sea of energy with non-stop chants. Their support reached its peak when they unfurled a massive tifo featuring manager Mario Lemos, showing their unwavering faith in the team.
The Kannur Warriors FC supporters, equally spirited, filled the stadium with drumbeats and vibrant dances, energizing their players with every move. The stadium came alive as the fans from both sides created an electrifying atmosphere, making this fixture a true spectacle of Kerala football fandom.
MATCH REPORT
The opening half of the match between Kannur Warriors FC and Forca Kochi FC was a fast-paced affair, with both teams adopting an attacking approach from the outset. The action was intense, as both sides made frequent incursions into the opposing penalty areas, testing each other’s defenses.
The breakthrough came in the first half when Kannur Warriors FC took the lead through a well-taken goal by their Spanish forward, David Grande. The goal was the result of a crucial error by Forca Kochi’s veteran goalkeeper, Subhasish Roy Chowdhury, who misjudged a routine ball, allowing Grande to capitalize and put Kannur ahead.
Buoyed by their lead, Kannur pushed forward in search of a second goal, mounting relentless pressure on Kochi’s defense. However, Forca Kochi, determined not to let the game slip away, tightened their backline and launched several counterattacks, spearheaded by captain Arjun Jayaraj and their new foreign signing, Dorielton Gomez. Despite their best efforts, Kochi was unable to find an equalizer, and the first half ended with Kannur Warriors FC leading 1-0.
The second half began with Forca Kochi FC making a key change between the posts, as manager Mario Lemos replaced goalkeeper Subhasish Roy Chowdhury with Hajmal. Despite the switch, Kannur Warriors FC maintained their aggressive attacking strategy, determined to extend their lead.
However, Forca Kochi showed tremendous resilience and worked tirelessly to find a way back into the game. Their efforts paid off when Basanta Singh scored in quick succession, capitalizing on a brilliant assist from Nidhal, to bring Kochi level. The equalizer shifted the momentum in Kochi’s favor, and they pressed forward with renewed energy, seeking a winning goal.
Despite Kochi’s relentless pressure, Kannur’s defense held firm, standing like an impenetrable wall and denying Kochi any further entry into their penalty box. Both teams fought hard until the final whistle, but neither could find the decisive goal. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with each side walking away with a point.
Player of the Match : Basanta Singh – Forca Kochi FC
Goalkeeper of the match : Ajmal PA – Kannur Warriors FC
Defender of the match : Vikas – Kannur Warriors FC