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Kerala Blasters FC to take on East Bengal FC in Kolkata

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kerala Blasters FC to take on East Bengal FC in Kolkata

Kerala Blasters FC will play their second away game of this ISL season against East Bengal FC at Kolkata’s Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan later this evening, in what will be the team’s second away match for the current ISL season.

After 5 games in this year’s Indian Super League, the Blasters find themselves among the swift movers in the points table with 10 points thus far, and a win tonight will take the team to the top of the points table.

The Blasters approach the game with a lot of confidence after coming back from behind to clutch 3 points against Odisha FC in their last game in Kochi, whereas East Bengal would be looking forward to making the most of their home turf advantage leading into this fixture.

Kerala Blasters FC and East Bengal FC have a neck-to-neck record with very little to separate both sides in terms overall record while playing against each other.

Head-to-Head

Played – 6

Kerala Blasters FC – 2

East Bengal FC – 1

Draws – 3

Team news

Kerala Blasters: The Blasters will be going into the fixture against the Torchbearers with a few key players missing out due to injury, with the ever-dependable midfield star Jeakson Singh becoming the latest to officially join the injury list.

Player To Watch

Kerala Blasters’ skipper Adrian Luna has been doing the bulk of the heavy lifting for the team, with his three goals so far in the season proving vital in KBFC securing their three victories so far.

However the Greek marksman Dimitrios Diamantakos has started to hit his straps as the season has progressed, his ability to score consistently would be important for the Blasters to mount their challenge later this evening.

Where to Watch

Live ISL action this evening will kick off at 08:00 PM available on Sports 18 and Jio Cinema, with Malayalam coverage on Jio Cinema, Surya Movies and News 18 Kerala.

Tune into the Kerala Blasters’ X (formerly Twitter) account posts, for all live match updates.

Odisha FC 1 – 2 Kerala Blasters FC | Kerala Blasters comeback from behind to register memorable victory

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Kochi : Kerala Blasters made a gritty comeback in the 2nd half of their 5th ISL encounter for the season against a very well marshalled Odisha FC side to secure all 3 points, taking the team to second on the League table with 10 points.

Odisha FC’ Sergio Lobera and Kerala Blasters’ returning manager Ivan Vukomanović both employed a 4-4-2 formation but it was Odisha FC who got off the blocks quicker, they built continuous pressure which led to Brazilian striker Diego Maurício driving the Juggernauts into an early lead.

The home team created chances of their own, but Kwame Peprah and Rahul KP’s attacks were nullified by a resolute Odisha FC defense, who constantly threw their bodies into the line of multiple shots to deny the Blasters parity in the game.

In the 21st minute of the match, Naocha Singh conceded a penalty due to a handball incident in his box, however young goalkeeper Sachin Suresh denied the penalty from Diego Maurício and a following rebound shot to disallow Odisha FC gaining further footing in the game.

From there on there was a visible shift in momentum, with the vocal home crowd getting involved in the game, which in return opened the game further for KBFC to build up a counter-attack, however the score was still 1-0 in favour of the visitors at half-time.

Soon into the half-time, coach Ivan Vukomanovic introduced midfielder Freddy Lallawmawma and striker Dimitrios Diamantakos into the game and the Greek international scored the equaliser off a ball into the box from Daisuke Sakai in 66th minute of the game, visibly rattling the vistors which led to many errors on the part of Odisha FC earning them as many five yellow cards for the game.

Blasters didn’t relinquish this advantage and constantly peppered the Odisha FC defense in search of that winning goal, which eventually came from an Adrian Luna attack in the 84th minute when he curled a ball into the top left corner of Odisha FC’ goal, a shot that sailed over the defense and keeper’s reach making all of the home crowd erupt in joy.

It was a massive comeback to overcome the early jitters and rally around in the second half of the game to mount the comeback that was displayed by the Blasters, Ivan Vukomanović’s tactical imprints were also clearly visible in the way he maneuvered his squad through timely substitutionsin the game’s second half.

Kerala Blasters next will play their second away game of this ISL season in Kolkata against East Bengal on 4th November, with victories such as this one providing the necessary belief in the whole squad to face the challenges ahead.

Substitutions

Freddy Lallawmawma [IN] – [OUT] Vibin Mohanan 58′

Dimitrios Diamantakos [IN] – [OUT] Rahul KP 58′

Mohammed Aimen [IN] – [OUT] Daisuke Sakai 70′

Ishan Pandita [IN] – [OUT] Kwame Peprah 81′

Mohammed Azhar [IN] – [OUT] Freddy Lallawmawma 81′

Northeast United FC 1 – 1 Kerala Blasters FC

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kochi : In last evening’s ISL fixture, Kerala Blasters were denied three points during their third home match of the season by Northeast United FC as they held the Blasters to a 1-1 draw.

Kerala Blasters started the contest with their usual 4-4-2 formation against Northeast United FC’s 5-3-2 combination.

As the game began, the home team held much of the possession and consistently attacked the opposition’s goal, but just missed gaining the lead by a slim margin.

However in the 12th minute the Highlanders gained a lead through Spaniard Néstor Albiach who worked a goal into the lower half of the Blasters net to give his team an advantage.

With four foreign players playing in their attacking half of the formation, the Blasters began to develop momentum through their attacks, changing the game’s momentum. Northeast United FC, however, went into half-time with a one-goal lead intact as the equaliser remained elusive for the Blasters.

In the second half the Blasters entered without any changes to the XI, but with renewed intensity the home-team broke the defense of the Highlanders through a set-piece led by skipper Adrian Luna whose free-kick into the Northeast United box was deflected into the goal by a precise header from Danish Farooq, making him register another goal to back his goal against Mumbai City FC in Kerala Blasters’ last fixture.

The game continued with aggressive momentum with Highlanders raking up as many as four yellow cards, whereas Kerala Blasters managed a sole yellow card through Rahul KP in the closing stages of the game.

Eventually after a closely contested tussle, both teams ended the game with a 1-1 scoreline, with the highlight of the game being the aggressive play with lack of shot accuracy not allowing either team to have a decisive edge in the game.

Kerala Blasters FC will now step-out for their next ISL fixture on 27th October against Odisha FC in Kochi. The game holds specific importance as it will be the game where Blasters head coach Ivan Vukamanovic will mark his return to the sidelines managing his team after serving his 10 match disciplinary ban.

Substitutions

Mohammed Aimen [OUT] – [IN] Daisuke Sakai 70′

Ishan Pandita [IN] – [OUT] Dimitrios Diamantakos 79′

Freddy Lallawmawma [IN] – [OUT] Vibin Mohanan 85′

Rahul KP [IN] – [OUT] Kwame Peprah 85′

Kerala Blasters FC v Northeast United FC – ISL 2023-24

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Kochi, Kerala : Kerala Blasters FC will square up against Northeast United FC in their fourth match of the Indian Super League 2023-24 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi later this evening.

The Blasters are currently placed fourth place in the League table with six points from three matches, while their opponent Northeast United FC is placed 5th on the table with 4 points in three games.

Following a loss to Mumbai City FC in their first away match of the season, the Blasters will be looking to bounce back to winning ways, whereas Northeast United, on the other hand, are coming off a draw in their away fixture against Punjab FC.

KBFC have a good record against Northeast United, having won eight of their 18 previous encounters. The last time the two sides met, Kerala Blasters FC beat Northeast United 2-0 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in an Indian Super League fixture on January, 2023.

Head-to-Head

Played – 18

Kerala Blasters FC – 8

NorthEast United FC – 4

Draws – 6

Team news
Kerala Blasters: The Blasters will be going into the fixture against the Highlanders without the services of some key players due to factors like injury concerns and suspensions, challenging coach Frank Dauwen to test out the bench strength of the squad, providing an interesting layer to the game on an tactical front as well.

Player To Watch
Kerala Blasters’ skipper and playmaker Adrian Luna will be the player to watch out for in this fixture. Luna who tends to feed off the energy and passion of the home fans put up two literally flawless performances in the first two home games, scoring two goals while also being at the forefront of creating chances, making him the key player in the game against the Highlanders to help his team acquire another three points at home.

Where to Watch
Live ISL action this evening will kick off at 08:00 PM which will be available on Sports 18 and Jio Cinema, with Malayalam coverage being on Jio Cinema, Surya Movies and News 18 Kerala.

KBFC Invites Applications for Kit Manager – Youth Team

Posted on by KBFC-Media
Job TitleKit Manager – Youth Team
Position TypeFull-time
Reports toTeam Manager/ Academy Ops Manager
LocationKochi

About
Kerala Blasters Football Club is an Indian professional football club based in Kochi, Kerala, that competes in the Indian Super League. The club is built on three strong pillars Collectivism, Inclusivity, and Sportsmanship, KBFC aims to be the biggest Football Club in India that generates young and talented players who not just represent the club at the National level but also the country at an international playing field, thereby reinforcing the legacy of Kerala towards the sport.

Purpose:

To Ensure youth teams have all the equipment and supplies to perform at their best on the field

Responsible for:

  • To work and assist in coordination with the Team Manager
  • Coordinate the team training and match day schedules.
  • To provide support to the players, coaches & other club officials
  • Inventory management of merchandise and equipment of the team
  • Organize the distribution and collection of kits and ensure they are worn correctly.
  • To arrange the travel services to the team, coaches, and club officials efficiently.
  • Organize equipment for team practices and games.
  • Helping the Operations team as and when required.
  • To carry out the services/activities as required for the reserve team and youth teams of the club
  • Undertake such other duties as are reasonably requested by the Company.

Who we are looking for:

  • 0-1 years of experience in sports industry  
  • Professional Proficiency in English and Hindi
  • Accepts accountability for all tasks and is able to take responsibility for outcomes
  • Experience in achieving outcomes and results through influencing the way resources are utilized as well as in managing them directly
  • Communication skills to cater to internal/external stakeholders
  • Proactive in planning, organizing, and managing multiple priorities
  • Comfortable with ambiguity and navigating fast-paced changes

Interested candidates are to send a CV along with a cover letter to careers@kbfcofficial.Com.
The subject of the email must be “ KIT MANAGER- YOUTH TEAM ”

Young Blasters Sporthood Academy: Now In Qatar!

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Great news for Indian football fans in the Middle East. Young Blasters Sporthood Academy (YBSA), the grassroots and youth development arm of Kerala Blasters FC has launched its operations in Qatar. With this launch, kids living in Qatar get a chance to get trained as well as scouted to be part of the Youth development system set up by Sporthood in association with Kerala Blasters FC.
The initiative launched in partnership with Blaster Sports Centre, the country partner for Qatar, has started operations in two turfs at the moment. “Our vision is to ensure that we build a pathway for Indian kids playing in Qatar to get an entry into ISL,” says Sippy Jose, Managing Director, Blaster Sports Center. In a short span of 3 weeks, the academy has crossed 150 registrations and aims to open many more centers across Doha.
“Today we train 5000+ kids across 125+ locations in India. Some of them are in partnership with schools, some with turfs, public grounds, etc. We aim to follow the same strategy in Qatar as well” says Rahul Thomas, Cofounder & CEO, Sporthood.

Schools/turfs interested in partnering with YBSA can reach out to us at http://www.blastersqatar.com/partnerships

Sahal Abdul Samad’s growth both with the club and the national squad is a testament to the quality of footballing talent available in the Middle East. As a club, KBFC is very serious about talent development in the region and we stay committed to the vision of building a bridge for talent to flow from the Middle East to India.

Nikhil Bharadwaj, Director KBFC.

Post setting up the network in Qatar, KBFC and Sporthood plan to expand their presence to other GCC countries as well. Local businesses interested in joining the mission to become country partners of other GCC countries can reach out to us at www.sporthood.in/partner_with_us

Age & skill appropriate training
At Young Blasters Sporthood Academy, kids are trained according to an age & skill-appropriate curriculum whetted by the technical experts at KBFC. Kids learn and progress between batches at their own pace, while falling in love with the beautiful game.

Crafting dreams, one kick at a time
The YBSA system gives ample opportunity for talented youngsters who wish to pursue excellence in football. Kids who enroll with the system in Qatar get access to the entire talent development pyramid which has been built out in India as well, including admissions to our Elite Squads and Residential Academies.

150 Registrations and Counting!
We’re thrilled to announce that in just three weeks, we’ve crossed a significant milestone of more than 150 registrations! This overwhelming response is a testament to the trust and enthusiasm of the expat Indian community living in Qatar.

For all the latest updates on our academy, coaching programs, and upcoming events,
visit our official website at www.blastersqatar.com or reach out to us at +974 3348 1833.
Instagram channel: www.instagram.com/ybsaqatar

CLUB STATEMENT

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kerala Blasters wish to express our deep disappointment and concern with a regrettable incident that occurred during our opening match against Bengaluru FC.

It has come to our attention that during the match, one of our players was subjected to a disrespectful gesture by a Bengaluru FC player. We want to make it abundantly clear that there is absolutely no room for racist and derogatory behaviour in our Club and in the sport. Racism, discrimination, and disrespectful actions have no place on the football pitch or anywhere else.

We have filed an official complaint with the appropriate authorities, urging them to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident. We trust that the authorities will treat this matter with the utmost seriousness and take the necessary steps to address it appropriately. We also call upon our good colleagues at Bengaluru FC to take appropriate action.

Football is a sport that unites people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. It is a platform for mutual respect. We remain committed to promoting a culture of diversity, inclusion, and respect in football and in our Club.

Kerala Blasters FC complete signing of Daisuke Sakai

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Kerala Blasters FC have completed the signing of Japanese forward, Daisuke Sakai, one a one-year contract.

Having played in various countries and leagues in Japan, Thailand, and Belgium, Sakai is a technical, skilled & versatile forward capable of operating in various positions across the front line.

Daisuke has made an impact everywhere he has played. He has 24 goals and 10 assists till date in nearly 150 appearances. Having spent his formative years in Japan, the 26-year-old forward comes with a good footballing background and has also represented Japan at the U17 and U20 Fifa World Cup.

Commenting on the signing, Karolis Skinkys, Kerala Blasters Sporting Director, said:
“It is great to see Daisuke Sakai join the Kerala Blasters squad. His profile gives the coach more options. He also has experience playing abroad in his career, which I am sure will help him adjust to India easily. I look forward to seeing Daisuke making his mark with Kerala Blasters in the ISL this season.”

Daisuke Sakai said :
“Going to India and playing in a different league will be a new experience for me, which I am very thankful for. I am very grateful that Kerala Blasters have given me this opportunity. By doing well and contributing to the club’s success, I hope to repay the confidence the club has shown in me.”

The Club extends a warm welcome to Daisuke into the Blasters Family. He is expected to link up with his new teammates in the coming week.

KBFC Confirm Multiple Loans

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Kerala Blasters FC can confirm that the following players have been loaned for the upcoming season:
Bijoy Varghese (CB) – Inter Kashi
Givson Singh (CM) – Odisha FC
Justine Emmanuel (ST) – Gokulam Kerala
Muhammed Saheef (LB) – Gokulam Kerala

Keeping in mind the growth and progression of players, the coaching staff felt the loan moves will the players with the necessary exposure and match experience required at this point in their careers.

The Club would like to wish all the players the very best for their loan spells.

Kerala Blasters FC sign midfielder Freddy Lallawmawma

Posted on by KBFC-Media

Kerala Blasters have reached an agreement with Punjab FC for the transfer of midfielder midfielder Freddy Lallawmawma, for an disclosed fee.

Freddy puts pen-to-paper on a three-year contract until 2026.

Over the past two seasons, the 21-year-old Mizoram native has been a commanding and combative presence in the Hero I-League with Punjab FC, winning the title with them last season.

A defensive midfielder by trade, Lallawmawma is adept at playing in multiple playing positions within the midfield and full of indistry- qualities that he has displayed extensively and consistently over his career thus far.

Commenting on the signing, Karolis Skinkys, Kerala Blasters Sporting Director, said:

“Freddy is a very good addition to the squad. He is young and eager to learn with the mentality to impact and control the game in the midfield. I hope he can quickly settle into the squad and contribute to the team’s success.”

Freddy Lallawmawma said:

“I am extremely grateful for this exciting opportunity. Kerala Blasters is one of the biggest clubs in the country and I see this opportunity as the next big step in my growth as a player. I promise to do everything within my control to do whatever role the club requires me to fulfill.”

The Club extends its warmest welcome to Freddy. He is expected to link up with his new teammates in Kochi this week, where the team is preparing for the dubai leg of its preseason.