Northern Derby Showdown: Malappuram Set to Host Calicut on October 19
The wait is over. The Super League Kerala returns with one of its fiercest fixtures as Malappuram FC host Calicut FC at the Payyanad Stadium, Manjeri, in the second match of the Round Three lineup on October 19.
Both sides step into this derby looking to bounce back from disappointing Round Two outings. Malappuram were held to a goalless draw by Kannur Warriors FC, while Calicut FC suffered a shocking 1–0 defeat at their fortress, the EMS Corporation Stadium, against Thrissur Magic FC, courtesy of a 36th-minute strike from Mailson Alves.
Malappuram FC: Momentum, Points, and Pride
For Malappuram, this fixture is more than just another league game.
They will look to prove their steady progress, silence the defending champions, and offer their home crowd a statement performance. A win would not only secure three vital points but also:
-
Strengthen their grip on a top-half position, easing the mid-table struggles that cost them dearly last season.
-
Extend their unbeaten run, providing a critical psychological boost heading into future matches.
-
Mark their first-ever victory against Calicut in Super League Kerala history, shifting regional dominance in their favour.
With strong home support and the confidence of holding league leaders Kannur to a stalemate, Malappuram have their sights firmly set on breaking past barriers.
Calicut FC: Defending Their Derby Reputation
For the Beacons, the Malabar Derby is a mission of restoration.
The Round Two setback has put pressure on the champions to respond immediately, and this match presents a crucial opportunity to rewrite momentum.
A victory would allow Calicut to:
-
Reassert their authority over Malappuram, maintaining their perfect 2–0 head-to-head record in the competition.
-
Bounce back from their home defeat, avoiding an early dip in form.
-
Climb into the top two, gaining leverage over a potential playoff rival later in the tournament.
With just three points to their name, the champions cannot afford to falter. Expect an aggressive approach and a heightened level of intensity from Ever Demalde’s side.
Team News
Both clubs received positive news heading into the derby.
There are no major injuries or suspensions reported for either team, offering managers Miguel Corral (Malappuram) and Ever Demalde (Calicut) full freedom to deploy their strongest squads.
Players to Watch
Malappuram FC – Muhammed Azhar
The former Kerala Police shot-stopper will be key to Malappuram’s defensive resistance.
His performance in Round Two against Kannur was exceptional — calm under pressure, composed in handling, and sharp with his reflexes. Azhar’s heroics earned him Man of the Match, denying every attempt thrown at him and preserving Malappuram’s unbeaten record.
If he replicates those levels, Calicut will find it difficult to break through.
Calicut FC – Prashant K
The veteran winger brings experience from multiple ISL and I-League clubs and has already made his mark for his hometown side.
Against Forca Kochi, his pressing, dribbling, and penetration inside the box disrupted the opponents and directly led to a decisive penalty that sealed Calicut’s opening-day win.
Though defeated by Thrissur Magic, Prashant remained influential, constantly searching for an equaliser with dangerous crosses and intelligent attacking runs.
His relentlessness could be vital in determining the outcome of the derby.

9995364162
ReplyDeleteHamdan
ReplyDeleteHamdan
ReplyDeleteHamdan
ReplyDelete