Kerala Blasters FC made a statement victory with a dominating display of energetic and perseverant football. They have etched their name in the history books with a joint record for the biggest ever win in the history of the Durand Cup, defeating Mumbai City, who fielded their reserve team, with a resounding 8-0 victory.
Mumbai City FC fielded their energetic reserve squad for the Durand Cup, using the platform to allow their young players to showcase their skills and talent. However, the evening turned into a nightmare for them as Kerala Blasters, led by an aggressive tactician, commanded the entire 90 minutes with relentless pressing and an unyielding “go for it” attitude.
From the first minute of the game, it was all Kerala Blasters. Under a new tactician at the helm, the team from Kochi was determined to secure a win. Their intent was clear as they pressed high up the field, giving the young guns of Mumbai City no time on the ball and creating havoc both in and out of possession. Kerala Blasters dominated with 25 shots, 13 of them on target, and maintained 65% possession, firmly establishing their control over the game.
Noah and Peprah both scored hat-tricks, while Ishan Pandita, who came on as a substitute, added a brace to bring the goal tally to 8. Danish Farooq stood out as the best Indian player on the pitch, providing 2 assists and working tirelessly throughout the game. Ruivah Hormipam, Freddy, Aiban, and Aimen showcased remarkable character for the team in yellow.
Kerala Blasters wore black armbands as a tribute to the lives lost in the Wayanad landslide, demonstrating their commitment to the community, which was admirable to watch.
The game began with Kerala Blasters in full command of the ball, dictating the tempo and field of play. Despite creating early chances, including opportunities for Hormipam, Danish, and Luna, they initially failed to break the deadlock. Kerala Blasters lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, which often shifted to a 4-2-3-1 or 4-2-2-2 shape, while Mumbai City FC deployed a 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2 shape, aiming to maintain a low block and capitalize on opposition mistakes. However, Mumbai struggled to withstand Kerala’s aggressive pressing and frequently lost possession.
The breakthrough came for Kerala Blasters in the 31st minute when Noah Sadoui scored, assisted by a precise ball from his former FC Goa, now KBFC teammate, Aiban Dohling. This goal set the stage for more to come. Kwame Peprah added to the tally in the 39th minute, finishing elegantly after a deflected through ball from Luna. Peprah struck again just before halftime, ending the first half with a 3-0 scoreline.
The intensity remained high in the second half, with Kerala Blasters’ head coach urging his players to relentlessly press and attack. Noah netted his second goal in the 51st minute, and just two minutes later, Peprah completed his hat-trick with a superb through ball from Danish, making it 5-0.
Noah then completed his hat-trick in style, finishing off a through ball from substitute Yoihenba Meitei. Ishan Pandita, who replaced Kwame Peprah, added two more goals in quick succession in the 87th and 88th minutes, bringing Kerala Blasters’ goal tally to an impressive 8.
Throughout the match, Kerala Blasters demonstrated their dominance, both tactically and in terms of execution, securing a memorable victory.
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Noah Sadaoui was selected as the Player of the Match for his exceptional individual performance on his debut for Kerala Blasters. The game ended in an impressive victory for Kerala Blasters, who faced little challenge from the reserve side of Mumbai City. However, this raises concerns as their next target to ease through the group stage is Punjab FC.
Blasters currently sit comfortably in the first position with a +8 goal difference, though they have yet to be tested by a stronger opponent. Nonetheless, this day will be remembered fondly by Kerala Blasters fans for a lifetime.
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