Gokulam Kerala FC

Gokulam Kerala FC is a prominent Indian professional football club located in Kozhikode, Kerala. Founded in 2017, the club competes in the I-League, the second tier of the Indian football league system. Gokulam Kerala made history by winning the 2020–21 I-League, becoming the first club from Kerala to achieve this feat. Furthermore, they secured a remarkable achievement by defending the league title during the 2021–22 season. Additionally, Gokulam Kerala FC earned the distinction of becoming the first club from the state to qualify for the AFC Cup in 2022.

Nicknamed Malabarians, Gokulam Kerala represents the state of Kerala, primarily focusing on the Malabar region. The club’s reserve team competes in the Kerala Premier League, claiming titles in the 2017–18 and 2020–21 seasons. Moreover, Gokulam Kerala’s women’s section actively participates in the Indian Women’s League.

In its early years, Gokulam Kerala FC experienced ups and downs but quickly showcased their potential by defeating notable clubs like East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, and Minerva Punjab. Under the guidance of Spanish coach Fernando Santiago Varela, the team made significant progress.

In 2018, Gokulam Kerala displayed impressive performances in the Super Cup qualifiers and pre-quarterfinals but faced a narrow defeat against Bengaluru FC. The club also participated in international competitions, such as the 2019 Sheikh Kamal International Club Cup in Bangladesh, where they reached the semifinals.

Continuing their journey of achievements, Gokulam Kerala FC clinched their maiden title in the 129th edition of the Durand Cup in 2019, triumphing over Mohun Bagan AC with a 2–1 victory in Kolkata.

Gokulam Kerala FC’s journey has been marked by success and recognition, making them a notable force in Indian football, especially in representing the state of Kerala.