Noah Sadaoui put on a standout display in Kerala Blasters FC’s Round of 16 clash against East Bengal FC in the Kalinga Super Cup. The Moroccan forward capped off his performance with a sensational second-half goal that highlighted his flair and attacking prowess.

Sadaoui wasn’t just on the scoresheet—he played a key role in the opening goal as well, earning the penalty that Jesus Jimenez slotted home in the first half. His relentless runs down the right wing constantly troubled East Bengal FC defender Anwar Ali, who struggled to contain him while playing at left centre-back.

The 2-0 win, coming in David Catala’s first match in charge, underlined Kerala Blasters' renewed defensive focus and secured them a spot in the quarter-finals, where they will face Indian Super League (ISL) double winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Catala’s debut victory brought a much-needed boost to the team’s confidence.

Despite a challenging debut season with Kerala Blasters FC, marked by injuries and the team’s struggles, Sadaoui remains optimistic about building strong chemistry within the squad.

"I always feel I can do better. I had setbacks, which were injuries before I never really had, and then just coming back and trying to catch rhythm and obviously with the team not doing so well this season, it's a lot. But as I said, I'm very positive and I always look forward to the next day," Sadaoui said during the interview with MyKhel.

"There are always ups and downs, and it's part of football. You have to accept it and just keep working hard,” he added.

The Blasters conceded 37 goals in the ISL this season, a reflection of both defensive lapses and individual errors leading to goals. However, Sadaoui is reluctant to place the blame solely on the backline. He believes that giving opponents "too much space" across the pitch was a major factor behind the goals conceded.

That said, he feels the team’s newfound compactness under the new head coach could make them serious contenders in the Kalinga Super Cup.

"Our biggest problem was not defending as a team. There was too much space, and teams punished us. But with the new coach, we've started focusing on defending compactly. If we continue like this, we'll have a word to say in this competition (Kalinga Super Cup)," Sadaoui remarked.

Beyond his goal-scoring abilities, Sadaoui sees himself as both a versatile player and a mentor. This season, he has adapted to different roles—often playing on the right wing despite it not being his preferred position, and occasionally stepping into various striker roles.

He also takes time to guide younger teammates like Mohammed Aimen and Korou Singh, stressing that hard work is essential for achieving success.

Sadaoui stated, "This season, I played on the right, though I usually prefer the left. I've played as a striker, second striker, and even behind the forward. I adjust. And I talk a lot with our youngsters, guys like Aimen and Korou. I tell them talent is not enough. It’s hard work that takes you forward."

Looking ahead, Sadaoui is well aware of the challenge that lies in facing Mohun Bagan Super Giant, a side with a strong track record and recent silverware to their name.

He emphasised the importance of carrying forward the momentum from their last win, learning from past mistakes, and approaching the next match with sharp focus and preparation.

"They've won two trophies, they have confidence. But we are a big club too. We take the positives from our last game and learn from our mistakes. Now it's about preparing for them," he commented.

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