Date: November 3, 2025
Competition: AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 (Group D)
Venue: Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
Introduction
Under the lights at the Kalinga Stadium, the Kerala Blasters FC produced one of the most complete performances of this year’s Super Cup, dismantling Sporting Club Delhi 3–0 in a dominant display. From the opening whistle, it was clear that the Blasters had come with a plan—to press high, strike early, and kill the contest before half-time.
By the 35-minute mark, they had done exactly that. Two goals from Spanish striker Koldo Obieta and a spectacular acrobatic strike from Korou Singh Thingujam gave the Kochi-based outfit full control of the encounter, leaving Sporting Delhi chasing shadows for most of the night.
This victory pushes the Blasters closer to a semi-final berth, while for Sporting Delhi, the result confirms an early exit from the competition.
First Half: Ruthless Efficiency
Kerala Blasters wasted no time asserting dominance. The midfield trio, marshalled by Adrián Luna, dictated tempo and pinned Delhi deep inside their own half.
⚽ 17′ — The Breakthrough
A simple back-pass from Delhi’s Ayush Adhikari turned into a nightmare. The ball was under-hit and pounced upon by Koldo Obieta, who calmly slotted the ball beyond the goalkeeper. The Spaniard’s pressing instincts and composure typified the Blasters’ high-intensity approach.
⚽ 23′ — Double Trouble
Barely six minutes later, the scoreboard changed again. A slick one-two between Korou Singh and Nihal Sudheesh carved open Delhi’s back line. Obieta found himself in space and finished emphatically at the near post. The second goal silenced any resistance Delhi had mustered.
⚽ 34′ — Korou’s Moment of Magic
The Blasters’ third goal was the pick of the bunch. Captain Adrián Luna, ever the orchestrator, floated an inch-perfect pass into the penalty area. Korou Singh Thingujam, timing his run to perfection, executed a stunning acrobatic volley that flew into the far corner. It was a finish that belonged on highlight reels—a statement of individual brilliance and team confidence.
By half-time, Kerala led 3–0. The job was virtually done.
Second Half: Game Management and Control
With the cushion secured, head coach Ivan Vukomanović adjusted tactics to a more measured tempo. The Blasters kept possession smartly, allowing their midfield to control rhythm while minimizing defensive risks.
Sporting Delhi tried to regroup, but their lack of creativity and penetration in the final third was evident. Their first and only real chance came in the 88th minute, when Subho Paul fired a long-range effort that was comfortably saved by Nora Fernandes.
Kerala’s backline, anchored by Marko Leshkovic and Bijoy Varghese, remained compact, ensuring another clean sheet—an area the coaching staff has emphasized in recent weeks.
Tactical Analysis
Kerala Blasters: High Press and Fluid Transitions
The Blasters’ structure was a textbook display of modern pressing football. They forced Delhi’s defenders into mistakes with relentless pressure, cutting off passing lanes and pouncing on errors.
Their build-up was equally fluid—Adrián Luna dropped deep to initiate attacks, while Nihal Sudheesh and Korou Singh stretched the play wide. Obieta operated as the target man, combining deft link-ups with lethal finishing.
Sporting Delhi: Structural Gaps and Loss of Composure
Delhi’s game plan—to sit deep and counter—crumbled after the early concession. Their wing-backs were pinned by Kerala’s width, and their midfield failed to retain the ball under pressure. Once two goals down, they never looked capable of a comeback.
The error for the first goal summed up their evening—nervous, rushed, and unable to handle Kerala’s energy.
Star Performers
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Koldo Obieta: Two goals, tireless pressing, and intelligent movement. A complete performance that defined Kerala’s attack.
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Adrián Luna: The heartbeat of the side—dictated tempo, created the third goal, and controlled transitions with maturity.
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Korou Singh Thingujam: His goal was pure artistry. The young winger continues to grow in confidence and influence.
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Nora Fernandes: Rarely troubled, but his concentration ensured a clean sheet and command of the area.
Post-Match Reactions
Adrián Luna (Kerala Blasters Captain):
“We started with intensity and wanted to make a statement. The team’s focus was incredible, and Koldo’s goals gave us confidence. We’re building momentum match by match.”
Ivan Vukomanović (Head Coach):
“We respect every opponent, but today the boys executed the plan perfectly. The pressing, movement, and energy levels were top class. Now the key is consistency.”
Sporting Delhi Coach:
“We made mistakes early, and against a side like Kerala Blasters you get punished. It’s a learning experience for our young players.”
Implications in the Group
The win takes Kerala Blasters to six points from two matches, firmly placing them atop Group D and all but securing their spot in the Super Cup semi-finals.
For Sporting Delhi, the defeat ends their campaign, but the experience will serve as valuable exposure for their young roster as they look to rebuild in the upcoming I-League season.
Looking Ahead
Kerala Blasters’ next challenge will be their final group match against Mumbai City FC, which could decide seeding for the knockout stages. With players like Obieta, Luna, and Korou in form, the Blasters will enter that match as favorites—but the real test lies beyond, in sustaining this momentum into the semi-final and possibly lifting silverware.
Sporting Delhi, meanwhile, must regroup, correct their defensive lapses, and develop tactical resilience if they hope to compete against India’s elite clubs in the future.
Conclusion
Kerala Blasters FC’s 3–0 triumph over Sporting Club Delhi was more than just a win—it was a statement. From the pressing intensity to the fluid attacking moves and the moments of flair, the Blasters showed that they are a complete unit ready to challenge for the Super Cup crown.
For Delhi, it was a harsh reminder of the gap that still exists between promising potential and top-tier execution. Yet, matches like these are essential building blocks for growth.
If Kerala continues playing with this balance of discipline and creativity, their passionate fans in Kochi may soon have more to celebrate than just a group-stage win—they may be on the verge of a long-awaited trophy run.
