Thiruvananthapuram finally erupted in joy. Under the pink glow of Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC clinched their first-ever win over Forca Kochi, edging them 1–0 in a tense Super League Kerala Matchweek 2 clash.
The night carried special meaning. Kombans took the field in pink jerseys to raise awareness about cancer, and their play reflected that purpose. They started the game with energy and heart, pushing Kochi deep through the creativity of Mota. McAloon had given clear instructions to Mota to get involved in attacking play, and that reflected in the game.
An early injury to U23 starter Akshay saw Shafi come on, but the rhythm continued. Forca Kochi gradually grew into the match, led by Sangeeth, the Project Game Changer product, who impressed again with his close control, dribbles, and backheel passes. Kombans’ keeper Aaryan, however, looked nervous early on. The first half ended goalless, though the contest was finely balanced.
The second half saw Forca Kochi take control, but coach James McAloon made a brave call in the 69th minute by replacing Autemar with Paulo Victor. Just four minutes later, it paid off spectacularly.
In the 73rd minute, Forca’s keeper Rafique rushed off his line to his right side to clear a ball, but was beaten by Ashar, who showed remarkable composure to curl in a cross from the left. Victor, perfectly positioned, powered a header into an empty net. The South Coast Trooper went into delirium.
From there, the home side fought with everything. Aaryan, who had looked vulnerable earlier, transformed into a wall. He pulled off a spectacular full-stretch save to deny Mushraf in the 82nd minute.
Ashar continued to shine, entertaining the crowd with fast, free-flowing play and even a cheeky nutmeg on the flank. At the back, Badish put on a masterclass, keeping Gino Van Kessel quiet with calm, precise defending.
There was late drama in stoppage time. In 90+6’, Van Kessel unleashed a thunderous strike that Aaryan somehow clawed away, before Kochi players failed to convert the rebound. Seconds later, the final whistle blew, and CSN exploded in pink celebration.
It was only Kombans’ second-ever home win in SLK and their first win against Forca Kochi FC.
Key Moments
- 19’ – Akshay injured, replaced by Shafi (U23).
- 69’ – McAloon substitutes Autemar with Paulo Victor.
- 73’ – GOAL! Paulo Victor heads in from Ashear’s cross (1–0).
- 82’ – Brilliant full-stretch save by Aaryan to deny Mushraf.
- 90+6’ – Van Kessel’s thunderous shot saved by Aaryan.
