The inaugural Super League Kerala final on November 10, 2024, saw an unforgettable showdown between Calicut FC and Forca Kochi FC, with Calicut emerging victorious in a thrilling 2-1 contest.
Held at the EMS Corporation Stadium, the match not only marked the first-ever edition of the Super League Kerala but also saw the home team secure their first-ever title, much to the delight of their passionate supporters.
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A Historic Encounter
In front of a packed crowd of 35,672 at the EMS Corporation Stadium, Calicut FC clinched the inaugural Super League Kerala trophy, taking the first step in what promises to be a bright future for the club. The match, held on Sunday evening, showcased not just the technical brilliance of the players but also the passion and love for football in the region. Calicut’s victory was sealed with a 2-1 scoreline, and with it, they walked away with a prize of ₹1 crore.
Celebrating Football in Kerala
The evening began with an electrifying atmosphere as the closing ceremony kicked off, featuring a performance by around 50 artists, including popular names like Steven Samuel, Avirbhav, and Deepthi Suresh. Their music and dance acts added to the excitement, keeping the crowd on their feet and setting the perfect tone for the final.
Kerala Football Association (KFA) President, Mr. Navas Meeran, took the stage to honor former Santosh Trophy and ISL players from Kerala, celebrating their contributions to Indian football. This moment was not just a recognition of past heroes, but also an inspiration for the young football enthusiasts in attendance, urging them to carry forward the region’s strong footballing legacy.
The event also saw prominent figures such as stars Prithviraj Sukumaran and Basil Joseph, who cheered on from the stands, adding a touch of glamour to the spectacle.
Calicut’s Early Control and Thoi Singh’s Opener
From the start, Calicut FC dominated the match with a clear game plan. The team’s high press and swift, calculated passing left Forca Kochi struggling to retain possession, forcing them to play under pressure. The home team’s tactical approach paid off early, as Thoi Singh opened the scoring in the 15th minute. A well-timed cross from star striker Kervens Belfort found Singh, who made no mistake in converting it into a goal.
The goal ignited the crowd and put Forca Kochi on the defensive. Despite some promising runs, Kochi’s top striker, Dorielton, was unable to find the back of the net, thanks to Calicut’s solid defensive setup. As the first half came to a close, Calicut maintained a slender 1-0 advantage.
Kochi’s Fightback and Belfort’s Stunning Strike
Determined not to let the game slip away, Forca Kochi came out for the second half with renewed vigor. Coach Mario Lemos made key substitutions, injecting fresh energy into his side, and pushing for an equalizer. However, Calicut’s defense stood firm, thwarting Kochi’s attacking advances time and again.
The 71st minute proved to be the turning point in the match when Kervens Belfort delivered a moment of brilliance. Trapping the ball with his chest, Belfort unleashed a powerful volley that sailed past Kochi’s goalkeeper, extending Calicut’s lead to 2-0. The goal was met with an explosion of joy from the Calicut faithful, who were already sensing victory in the air.
A Late Glimmer of Hope for Kochi
Kochi’s star midfielder, Raphael Augusto, continued to display his playmaking skills, trying to orchestrate an attacking response for his team. Despite some fine efforts, Kochi’s comeback hopes were dashed by Calicut’s resolute defending.
In the dying minutes of the match, however, Kochi’s persistence paid off when Dorielton, the league’s top scorer, found the back of the net in the 90+4 minute. His goal offered a fleeting moment of hope for Kochi, but it came too late. With the final whistle, Calicut FC were confirmed as the Super League Kerala champions.
A New Chapter for Kerala Football
The victory marked a historic achievement for Calicut FC, who not only claimed the prestigious title but also earned a prize of ₹1 crore. Forca Kochi, though falling short, were awarded ₹50 lakhs as the runners-up, acknowledging their efforts in what was a closely contested final.
The Super League Kerala final demonstrated the growing stature of football in the state, showcasing not only the talent of local players but also the fervent fanbase that supports the game. As Calicut FC celebrate their hard-earned triumph, the league has set a high standard for future seasons, promising even more thrilling football action across the state.
This inaugural season has certainly laid a strong foundation for the future of Kerala football, and with such enthusiasm and talent on display, the state is well on its way to becoming a footballing hub in India.
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Who won the Super League Kerala 2024?
Calicut FC won the inaugural Super League Kerala title, defeating Forca Kochi FC 2-1 in the final.
Where was the Super League Kerala final held?
The final took place at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode.
What was the prize for the Super League Kerala champions?
Calicut FC received ₹1 crore as the prize for winning the Super League Kerala title.
Who scored the winning goal for Calicut FC in the final?
Kervens Belfort scored the decisive goal for Calicut FC in the 71st minute, securing their victory.
