Calicut FC are unbeaten against Malappuram FC in the Malabar derby
The Super League Kerala 2026 is all set for its most exciting encounter so far, as Calicut FC will lock horns against Malappuram FC for what the fans call the Malabar Derby of the Super League Kerala. The highly anticipated match will take place on the 2nd October at the EMS Corporation Stadium, Calicut and is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 pm.
Calicut FC and Malappuram FC have had contrasting starts to their Super League Kerala 2026 season. Calicut FC had a dominating 2-0 victory against Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC, while Malappuram FC gifted a 1-0 victory to Forca Kochi FC in the dying minutes of their opener.
Both teams are now geared to brace themselves for yet another derby match. In their four meetings so far, Calicut FC has emerged victorious in three instances, and one game ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw. Calicut FC, eager to continue their winning streak, and Malappuram FC, eyeing to draw first blood, will enter the pitch for nothing less than a win.
As the Super League Kerala 2026 Malabar derby approaches, here is a look at what are the stakes involved.
The Stakes
Calicut FC
Calicut FC, having won their first match at home, are currently in second position in the Super League Kerala 2026 group table with three points in hand. In the Malabar derby, a win would not only mean three points for the winning side, but also assert regional dominance and bragging rights for the fans.
Hence, Calicut will step into their fortress, eyeing consistency and all three points in this crucial Malabar derby, which would help them reclaim their position at the top of the table and extend their unbeaten record against their counterparts.
Malappuram FC
Malappuram FC would be disappointed to have succumbed to a last-minute loss against Forca Kochi FC after a solid defensive display. The match against Calicut FC now gives Malappuram FC a golden opportunity to brush off their disappointment after starting the season with a loss.
Moreover, in their four meetings so far, Malappuram FC has zero wins compared to Calicut, who have won three out of their four derby matches. Hence, winning is not just another option for Malappuram FC. It is the only option available for them to redeem themselves and place their name in the top four, preventing any mid-table struggle similar to what they faced in Super League Kerala 2024.
Team News
As of now, neither team has any injury concerns or suspensions for their upcoming Malabar derby match in Super League Kerala 2026.
Predicted Lineups
Calicut FC (4-3-3)
Mirshad Michu (GK); Lalnuntluanga Bawitlung, Andres Felipe Roa Soza, Manoj M, Muhammed Riyas; Kervens Belfort Fleury, Andres Ramiro Villalobos, Calwin Zola; Ernest Boateng Andrews, Maximiliano Urruti, Prasanth
Malappuram FC (4-1-2-3)
Muhammed Arbaz (GK); Muhammed Salim, Muhammed Bilal, Abdul Hakku Nediyodath, Bibin Anwar; Grace Adieu Youmou; Bongani Zungu, Prabanj Prasad; Sajeesh E, D. Lahlhimpuia, Abdelhay Elforsy
Player to Watch Out For
Calicut FC – Federico Boasso
The Argentine midfielder of Calicut FC, Federico Boasso Fleury, will be Calicut FC’s player to watch in their Super League Kerala Malabar derby clash against Malappuram FC. Though an attacking midfielder on paper, the versatile 31-year-old covers the central midfield and the left midfield areas to add thorns to the Calicut FC attack.
In their Super League Kerala 2026 opener against Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC, Boasso dictated the tempo from the centre of the park. His offensive initiatives from the wings breached the Kombans’ defence early in the 22nd minute when he pulled off a sharp move inside the box before setting up Prashanth K for the opening goal.
Boasso was a constant menace throughout the match, orchestrating build-up plays, winning high-value duels, and continually troubling the opponent’s backline. This match-winning performance also earned him a worthy Man of the Match award.
Malappuram FC – Abdul Samad Ango
Malappuram FC’s latest addition to their defensive unit, Abdul Samad Ango, will be the key player to watch out against Calicut FC. The 23-year-old centre-back joined Malappuram in the Super League Kerala 2026 season after spending the 2025-26 season with Rajasthan United, making 9 appearances in the Indian Football League.
In Malappuram FC’s Super League Kerala 2026 opener against Forca Kochi FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Samad put on a defensive masterclass. Despite his team conceding a late fumble, Abdul Samad played throughout the game and was pivotal in spearheading the backline.
The 23-year-old displayed exceptional pace and physical dominance, keeping the Kochi attack numbed for almost the entire match. Winning crucial duels, making key interceptions, and holding off pressure in the box with calmness, Samad will be a central pillar in deciding Malappuram FC’s defensive stability against the Prashant-Maxmiliano-Boasso trio.
When and where to watch the Super League Kerala 2026 match between Calicut FC and Malappuram FC?
The Super League Kerala 2026 match between Calicut FC and Malappuram FC will take place on the 2nd of October 2026, at the EMS Corporation Stadium, Calicut.
Fans all across India can watch the Super League Kerala 2026 matches digitally on Zee5, alongside linear coverage on Unite8 Sports. Fans from the UAE can enjoy the Super League Kerala action with Etisalat.
When and where will Calicut FC vs Malappuram FC be played?
The Super League Kerala 2026 Malabar Derby will be played on 2 October 2026 at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Calicut. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST.
Where can fans watch Calicut FC vs Malappuram FC?
Fans across India can watch Super League Kerala 2026 matches digitally on ZEE5, with linear coverage available on Unite8 Sports. Fans in the UAE can watch the competition through Etisalat.
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