Rahul KP is 'Useless' - Kerala Blasters Fans Unhappy With Forward After 1-2 Loss to Punjab FC in ISL 2024-25

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Kerala Blasters fans were left frustrated after their team's 1-2 defeat to Punjab FC in their ISL 2024-25 opener at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on September 15.

One player who found himself in the firing line was forward Rahul KP, who faced significant criticism from the fanbase for his underwhelming performance in attack.

"I am always telling the same word in every season. Rahul KP is a useless guy, no improvement every year. Same-no passing, no ball control, no clearance. Crucial stage, miss pass straight to the opponent team. If I were the coach, I'd terminate his contract," wrote one disgruntled fan, summing up the growing dissatisfaction with Rahul KP's performance.

Some fans expressed their preference for forward Ishan Pandita over Rahul KP, believing that Pandita could make a greater impact on the pitch. "Pandita is far far better than Rahul. KBFC should use him instead of benching him," one supporter noted, advocating for a change in the team's lineup.

The frustration wasn't solely directed at Rahul. Some fans felt that the absence of key players like Adrian Luna had left Kerala Blasters' attack looking "clueless." Luna missed the match, while Vibin Mohan, who came on as a second-half substitute, offered the only spark of hope for Blasters supporters. "Vibin is the only positive from today's match. With this attitude, I don't see us winning any away matches. Too early to judge, but top 6 will be tough," a concerned fan wrote, questioning the team's chances of making the playoffs.

Adding to the agony for Kerala Blasters supporters was the performance of their former player, Nihal Sudheesh, who was named Man of the Match for Punjab FC. Sudheesh, now donning the colours of the opposition, played a crucial role in his team's victory, much to the surprise of many Blasters fans.

Despite the negative sentiments, some tried to remain optimistic, viewing the loss as part of a larger adjustment phase for the team. "This team will take some time to know each other's game. Missed Luna badly," commented a fan, hoping the squad would gel in future matches. Others, however, expressed frustration with Kerala's long wait for silverware, with one fan sarcastically remarking, "We will wait for countless years and watch other teams lifting trophies."

To add insult to injury, a Chennaiyin FC fan joined in to mock Kerala Blasters, saying, "Chennaiyin football club won, Kerala Blasters football club lost. World is healing, brother," referencing their club's victory in their season opener against Odisha FC.