Kannur Warriors Keep Playoff Hopes Alive With Crucial 2–0 Win Over Thrissur Magic FC

Kannur Warriors climbed to third place in the Super League Kerala after a decisive 2–0 victory over second-placed Thrissur Magic FC in their final group-stage match at the Corporation Stadium. In a must-win scenario, the Warriors delivered an impressive performance to maintain their unbeaten away record and keep their semi-final hopes alive.

The match began with Kannur pushing aggressively from the opening whistle. Their flank-driven attacks repeatedly troubled Thrissur, and in the 9th minute, Manoj created the first major opening by setting up Asier Gomes, who headed over from close range. Gomes continued to test the Thrissur goalkeeper with several long-range attempts, but the visitors’ defending remained resolute.

Despite dominating possession and chances, Kannur struggled to convert. Thrissur Magic defended with commitment, producing last-ditch tackles to keep the Warriors at bay. But after sustained pressure, the breakthrough finally arrived in the 43rd minute. Shijin displayed excellent control inside the six-yard box before slipping the ball to Sinan, who outfoxed the defenders and squared it to the unmarked Gomes. The striker tapped in the opener, giving Kannur a deserved 1–0 lead at halftime.

The second half saw Thrissur introduce four substitutions as they pushed for a win that could have helped them top the table. Yet Kannur’s resilience continued to frustrate the hosts. The Warriors created a flurry of opportunities but lacked finishing precision, with shots either mis-hit or repelled by the crossbar. Thrissur remained compact defensively, clearing danger at every opportunity as time began to run out.

In stoppage time, Thrissur earned a dangerous free-kick and committed players forward in search of an equaliser. Their gamble backfired spectacularly. Kannur launched a rapid counterattack through Arjun, who surged down the right flank before lifting a ball toward Kean. He set up Ebindas, who calmly tapped the ball into an open net in the 97th minute, sealing the victory.

The win propels Kannur Warriors into third place, overtaking Malappuram FC in the top-four standings. Their progression to the semi-finals, however, now depends on other results. Kannur will advance if either Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC or Malappuram FC lose their final group-stage fixture. Otherwise, their campaign will come to an end.

Round 10 continues with Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC facing Calicut FC on December 3 at the Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium, followed by Malappuram FC’s clash with Forca Kochi FC on December 4 at the Payyanad Stadium. Fans across India can catch all Super League Kerala action live from 7:30 pm on Sony Sports Network and the Sports.com website.