Santosh Trophy 2022-23: Karnataka shock holders Kerala

by Ayan Abdulla February 12, 2023

Karnataka defeated defending champions Kerala 1-0 in a Group A fixture at the OFA 7th Battalion in Bhubaneswar, Odisha earlier today.

Abhishek Powar scored the winner and the only goal of the game, for Karnataka.

It is safe to say that Karnataka was the better side in the first half, creating many chances. The team looked like they were in for revenge after having suffered a heavy 7-3 defeat in their last meeting against Kerala in the previous edition, which was held at Malappuram, Kerala.

Their determination was finally rewarded with a goal in the 19th minute. Abhishek Powar received Jacob’s brilliant cross from the right wing with this chest and slotted the ball home to give his state the lead and eventually 3 points against the 7-time Champions Kerala.

Karnataka had a great chance to make it 2 just before the half-time whistle when Abhishek picked up Shajan’s cross from the right wing, but the winger’s shot was saved by Kerala’s goalkeeper and captain Midhun.

Kerala came close to an equalizer in the 60th minute when Riswan Ali set up a ball for Abdu Raheem inside the box, but his shot went inches off the target.

Squad

Kerala- Midhun, Manoj, Ameen, Mohamed, Sanju, Gifty Gracious, Hirsh, Abdu Raheem, Rizwan Ali, Nijo Gilbert, Naresh Bhagyanathan.

Head Coach- PB Ramesh

Karnataka- Satyajit, G, Manoj, Nikhil, Robin, Shajan, Karthik, Lalremtuangla, Jacob, Shelton, Abhishek.

Head Coach- Ravi Babu Raju

Player of the match- Abhishek Shankar Powar

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