Kannur Warriors End Calicut FC Title Defence to Enter SLK Final

Kannur Warriors FC defeated defending champions Calicut FC 1–0 in the Super League Kerala semi-final to book a place in the SLK final and end Calicut’s hopes of retaining the title. The match was played at the EMS Corporation Stadium, Kozhikode, and was decided by a second-half penalty.

The opening half was evenly contested, with both teams focused on structure and control rather than risk.

Calicut FC, who entered the knockout stage as league toppers, enjoyed more possession but found it difficult to create clear chances against a compact Kannur Warriors defence. Mohammed Asif came close from a free kick, but the attempt drifted just wide of the target.

Calicut suffered a setback in the 21st minute when defender Sachu Siby was forced off with an injury, slightly disrupting their defensive organisation.

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Kannur Warriors, meanwhile, remained patient and disciplined, relying on quick transitions and set-piece opportunities to apply pressure in the Super League Kerala encounter.

The decisive moment came in the 71st minute when Kannur were awarded a penalty after Asier Gomes was fouled inside the box. Muhammed Sinan stepped up and converted from the spot, sending the Calicut goalkeeper the wrong way to give Kannur a crucial lead.

Following the goal, Calicut FC pushed numbers forward in search of an equaliser. They created a few half-chances in the closing stages, but the Kannur Warriors backline held firm, blocking shooting lanes and limiting space in the final third. The Warriors’ goalkeeper and defence worked cohesively to preserve the advantage through stoppage time.

The victory marks a significant achievement for Kannur Warriors FC, who entered the Super League Kerala 2025 season as underdogs and progressed steadily through the league phase. Their ability to remain organised under pressure proved decisive against a Calicut side known for attacking depth.

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With this result, Kannur Warriors advance to the Super League Kerala final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between Thrissur Magic FC and Malappuram FC. The final is expected to draw strong interest as Kerala football moves toward the season’s conclusion.