The Kalinga Super Cup is in full swing, with matches coming thick and fast. In the opening clash of the tournament on April 20, Kerala Blasters made a strong statement by defeating East Bengal and advancing to the next round.
Despite East Bengal being the defending champions, Kerala Blasters came in fully prepared and made the victory look effortless. This impressive win not only secured their place in the quarterfinals but also set the tone for their campaign in the tournament.
Domination of Kerala Blasters
The Super Cup 2025 was a chance for Kerala Blasters to make amends, and the new coach did just that. Under David Catala, Kerala got off to a brilliant start in the 2nd minute.
Sadaoui started well with the perfect pass to Jimenez, only for the Spanish star to miss the opportunity. The pair of Jimenez and Sadaoui continued to dominate the first half, but a scoring opportunity arose in the 40th minute.
Noah Sadaoui sealed the win with a brilliant 25-yard strike in the 64th minute. Despite missing some early chances, Kerala’s clinical finishing and tactical discipline shone through, leaving East Bengal with no answers. The Blasters now look forward to their upcoming clash with Mohun Bagan on April 26.
SUGGESTED READ: Punjab FC Announce Squad for Super Cup 2025
Missed Chances By East Bengal
Fans might think that it was a tricky affair for East Bengal, but the team missed plenty of chances. They hardly looked like a champion team in the park. Under Oscar Bruzon, the team looked unbalanced.
The scoreline might suggest that Kerala Blasters defeated East Bengal, but the actual outcome was East Bengal’s missed chances. In the 7th minute of the game, Richard Celis tried his shot but missed very closely.
Right before the end of the first half, Vishnu had the chance to strike the post, but it hit the sidebar, and Raphael Messi Bouli didn’t score the rebound. The defense of Kerala Blasters was so strong that East Bengal hardly had any answers.
Coach Oscar did bring in substitutions to the side, but his team hardly made use of the opportunity. In fact, that almost let a 3rd goal slide in, but Sadaoui hit the shot above the bar.
Who Will Kerala Blasters Face Next?
As Kerala Blasters defeated East Bengal and moved into the quarterfinals, the journey won’t be easier.
They will be up against Mohun Bagan Supergiants, who are the double winners of the ISL tournament.
This match will take place on 26th April as a quarter-final clash at the Kalinga Stadium. Fans from both teams are expected to fill up the stadium.
YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED: Mohun Bagan SG Edge Past Kerala Blasters in Super Cup 2025
