Calicut FC beat Forca Kochi FC 2-1 in the final to win the inaugural Super League Kerala title at EMS Corporation Stadium on Sunday. Leading 1-0 at halftime, Calicut won the first-ever Super League Kerala trophy and a prize money of Rs 1 crore.
A total of 35,672 packed the stadium to watch the match as all came to support their team, the local one. Calicut FC had very good backing in the stands with their home crowd. Ahead of the match, Kerala Football Association president Navas Meeran felicitated some former Santosh Trophy. And ISL players for their contributions to Indian football.
Calicut FC dominated possession, piling high with quick passes, right from the first whistle. As early as the 15-minute mark, Thoi Singh gave Calicut the lead with a well-placed finish after striker Kervens Belfort’s precise cross found him. It got the crowd going and left Forca Kochi FC struggling to regain any kind of control.
A Kochi attack, spearheaded by striker Dorielton Gomes, a parody of Brazil legend Dorvalino, kept falling on the Calicut wall. Dorielton, who maintained his stressful eminence in the field with several big misses, could not score a goal, while Calicut walked into the dressing rooms 1-0 up at half-time.
FC Kochi came out with more urgency in the second half. Coach Mario Lemos made some changes to boost the attack. However, the Calicut defense remained firm and denied Kochi any real chances. Kervens Belfort sealed the win in the 71st minute with a fantastic volley. Controlling it onto his chest, he then nailed a powerful shot into the net with force to double the lead for Calicut.
Forca Kochi did not give up. The midfielder Raphael Augusto set up a few chances, and in the fourth minute of the injury time. The league’s top scorer Dorielton found the back of the net to reduce the deficit, but it was a little too late. Calicut held on to their slender lead and celebrated their historic victory.
Additionally, The win made Calicut FC the champion of Super League Kerala for the first time. Their dominant performance throughout the match, coupled with good defensive work and clinical finishing, saw them win the title. Forca Kochi FC, though disappointed, fought with resilience, especially in the dying moments of the game.
This victory has written a new chapter in the history of Kerala football. And Calicut FC will also look forward to more victories with this loyal fanbase in their corner.
ANI
