Statement victories have become a new favorite habit of the Blasters as they have done it yet again in the Durand Cup in the Group C encounter against CISF Protectors FT. We witnessed Kerala Blasters going on a rampage over the opponents, yet again, leaving them no chance to even think of a possible comeback.
Kerala Blasters FC lined up in their usual 4-3-3 formation, captained by star midfielder Adrian Luna. Under the guidance of new tactician Mikael Stahre, this formation has proved to be successful so far. Meanwhile, CISF Protectors FT’s head coach, Ajit Kumar, chose a 4-4-2 flat formation, with striker Rahul Aswal as captain.
From the start of the game, Kerala Blasters FC dominated every statistic. It didn’t take long for the Manjappada to break the deadlock, doing so in the 6th minute through Kwame Peprah. Moroccan star Noah Sadaoui assisted Peprah and then scored himself just 3 minutes later, converting a beautiful pass from Mohammed Aimen. This quick succession made it 2-0 within the first 10 minutes.
The dominance of Kerala Blasters FC continued unabated, and the Protectors realized they were in for a long night. Mohammed Aimen, who was a constant threat on the flanks, scored his second goal of the tournament with an assist from Kwame Peprah. By then, it was clear to the Protectors that they needed to address their shortcomings quickly, but their efforts were too late. Noah Sadaoui added his second goal of the night, effortlessly beating goalkeeper Raj Mahato.
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Despite some promising defensive moments later in the match, the Protectors couldn’t contain the relentless trio of Sadaoui, Aimen, and Peprah. Kerala Blasters FC continued their offensive onslaught, and in the 25th minute, young defender Naocha Singh scored his first goal for the team, making it 5-0 in favor of Kerala Blasters FC.
For the remaining 20 minutes of the first half, both teams slowed down, leading to a few chances for the trailing Protectors. Some attempts hit the woodwork, while others were off target. Just before halftime, Mohammed Azhar scored in the 44th minute to make it 6-0. This goal was particularly special as it saw twin brothers Mohammed Aimen and Mohammed Azhar both find the net in the same game. The eventful first half concluded with this goal.
The second half began with notable changes, including KBFC’s goalkeeper Som Kumar being replaced by Nora Fernandes. In this period, CISF Protectors FT showed a renewed sense of urgency and competitiveness, desperately seeking a consolation goal against Kerala Blasters FC.
In the 87th minute, Bryce Miranda was tackled inside the box by Bebetto, resulting in a penalty for Kerala Blasters FC. The penalty was anticipated to be a certain goal. Noah Sadaoui stepped up to take the shot, which was intended as a Panenka but went just over the crossbar. However, he quickly made amends, completing his hat trick within a minute and marking his second hat trick of the tournament with a goal that made it 7-0.
From the outset, Mikael Stahre and his team were in full control, with Sadaoui netting a hat trick and Kwame Peprah delivering a hat trick of assists. Despite this dominant performance, Adrian Luna’s hesitation in front of goal remains a concern for the Manjappada. The match assured Kerala Blasters FC a smooth passage through the group stage, as they comfortably lead the table with seven points and a +15 goal difference.
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