Football

The Indian Super League (ISL) is a highly competitive league where fortunes can change rapidly. Last year, Kerala Blasters pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Kolkata. Days later, Bagan sacked its coach Juan Ferrando and brought back Antonio Habas, the league's most successful coach.Now, Kerala Blasters and Mohun Bagan are set to face off again at the Nehru Stadium on Wednesday. The Kolkata giant is a different beast under Habas, having won four of its last five games and amassing 36 points. Meanwhile, the Blasters have won just one of their last five matches and sit fifth in the standings with 29 points."It will not be an easy game because Bagan is one of the best teams in the league," said Ivan Vukomanovic, Blasters head coach. "It's true we won against them but it was a different energy back then in Kolkata. Now, it's different because they changed the energy with new coaching staff and a different approach."Vukomanovic emphasized the importance of focus and determination in such high-stakes matches. "At the top level, when you play big games, it's about one moment, one small detail, one small mistake that can solve the game," he said. "I think the boys should enjoy the fight tomorrow, show their best face and try to get a positive result."The Blasters will need to be at their best to overcome a formidable Bagan side. The Kolkata team has a strong defense, led by goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharya, and a potent attack featuring Liston Colaco and Hugo Boumous.The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two teams with contrasting fortunes. The Blasters will be looking to upset the odds and secure a crucial victory, while Bagan will be aiming to continue their winning streak and solidify their position at the top of the table.

Bengaluru FC secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Kerala Blasters at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday, marking their first consecutive win in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) campaign. The triumph propelled Gerard Zaragoza's side to sixth place in the standings, securing the final playoff spot.Midfielder Javi Hernandez emerged as the hero for Bengaluru, scoring the decisive goal in the 89th minute. The Spaniard's clinical strike came off a precise cross from substitute Shivaldo Singh, sending the ball into the bottom-right corner.Despite Kerala Blasters entering the match in fifth place, it was Bengaluru FC who dominated the proceedings. Ryan Williams, operating on the left flank, played a pivotal role, creating numerous scoring opportunities.In the first half, Naorem Roshan and Sunil Chhetri came close to breaking the deadlock for Bengaluru. However, Roshan's cut-back found no takers, while Chhetri failed to connect with a dangerous free-kick from Hernandez.The second half witnessed an even more spirited performance from Bengaluru. Chhetri had another chance in the 68th minute, but Williams' pass eluded the skipper's outstretched leg.As the match neared its conclusion, Kerala Blasters forward Fedor Cernych missed a golden opportunity to equalize. After a save from Bengaluru goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Cernych sent the rebound over the crossbar from close range.Hernandez's late strike proved to be the difference, handing Bengaluru FC a much-needed three points. The victory not only boosted their playoff hopes but also marked a significant improvement in their recent form.

Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters Set for Crucial ISL Clash at Sree Kanteerava StadiumOver a year after their infamous protest and forfeit at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Kerala Blasters return to face Bengaluru FC in a highly anticipated Indian Super League (ISL) encounter. While the stakes may be lower this time around, the match holds significant importance for both teams.Bengaluru FC, currently ninth in the standings with 18 points from 17 matches, is desperately chasing a playoff spot. A victory against Blasters would keep their hopes alive, as they aim to finish among the top six. Kerala Blasters, on the other hand, are fifth with 29 points from 16 games and are eyeing a direct semifinal berth, which is reserved for the top two teams.Both teams enter the match on the back of morale-boosting victories. Bengaluru FC overcame Hyderabad FC 2-1 at home, while Kerala Blasters snapped a three-match losing streak with a thrilling 4-2 win over FC Goa.Bengaluru FC will be bolstered by the return of midfielder Suresh Wangjam, who was suspended against Hyderabad FC, and defender Aleksandar Jovanovic, who has recovered from an injury. Kerala Blasters will rely on the goalscoring prowess of Greek striker Dimitrios Diamantakos, who has netted 10 goals this season, including six in the last six matches.The match promises to be a tactical battle between two experienced coaches. Bengaluru FC's Simon Grayson will look to exploit the Blasters' defensive vulnerabilities, while Ivan Vukomanovic will aim to maintain his team's attacking momentum and secure a crucial three points.With both teams desperate for a positive result, the atmosphere at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium is expected to be electric. The match will be a test of character and resilience for both Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters, as they strive to achieve their respective goals in the ISL.