Mumbai City vs Kerala Blasters, Durand Cup 2024: Kwame Peprah, Noah Sadaoui, and Ishan Pandita drive huge win for KBFC

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Noah Sadaoui and Kwame Peprah each scored impressive hat-tricks as Kerala Blasters FC demolished Mumbai City FC with an 8-0 victory, marking the start of their Group C campaign in the Durand Cup 2024 at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan.

Ishan Pandita added two late goals to complete the rout, helping Kerala Blasters match the record for the most goals in a single game, a feat last achieved in 1889 by Highland Light Infantry in the tournament's second edition.

In his debut match as head coach of Kerala Blasters, Mikael Stahre fielded a strong starting lineup against a youthful Mumbai City squad comprised of academy and reserve players, led by Mohan Suresh Daas. Noah Sadaoui, Adrian Luna, and Kwame Peprah spearheaded the attack, while Millos Drincic and Hormipam Ruivah anchored the defense.

Kerala Blasters dominated from the outset, with 13 shots on goal in the first half, and broke the deadlock in the 31st minute when Noah Sadaoui volleyed in a cross from Aibhan Dohling. Despite missing a chance to double the lead, Sadaoui's teammates continued the onslaught.

Adrian Luna set up the second goal with a precise through ball to Peprah, who finished confidently. Peprah added another goal six minutes later, pouncing on a rebound from the goalkeeper after an Adrian Luna header. Sadaoui scored his second goal early in the second half, heading in a cross from Mohammed Aimen.

Peprah completed his hat-trick shortly thereafter, capitalizing on a pass from Danish Farooq with a powerful finish. Sadaoui completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute, finishing calmly after being set up by substitute Yoihenba Meeitei.

Ishan Pandita, who replaced Peprah, scored twice in quick succession towards the end of the match. He first capitalized on a defensive mix-up to score into an empty net, then added another goal with a finish into the top right corner, capping off a dominant performance for Kerala Blasters.