The 10th edition of the Indian Super League (ISL 2023-24) is to start on September 21. The full fixture and match details are likely to be announced later this week.
ISL 2023-24 will be a 12-team affair and the first one to see one of the I-League clubs making its way into the tournament through promotion. Punjab FC (formerly called RoundGlass Punjab), having won the I-league last season, progressed into the ISL.
According to the reports, the opening fixture is to be played between Kerala Blasters FC and Bengaluru FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi.
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“We have not got the full schedule as of now but KBFC versus BFC will be the first match, and it will be Kerala’s first home game,” the source told Sportstar.
Organisers initially wanted the opening match in Kolkata, which hosted the first-ever game in 2014, but were forced to look at alternative venues due to logistical reasons.
Kerala then emerged as the best venue to host the opener, particularly since it almost guarantees a packed crowd. Once the venue was locked, Bengaluru FC were the natural choice for opponents, given the history between the clubs.
Kerala Blasters vs Bengaluru FC is a re-match of last season’s controversial affair between the two sides. During the playoffs at the Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, Bengaluru FC skipper Sunil Chhetri scored a goal from a quick free-kick and it was allowed to stand. Despite Kerala Blasters’ continuous protests, the decision did not change. As a result, coach Ivan Vukomanovic ordered the whole team to walk out.
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The goal proved to be the winner as Bengaluru FC were adjudged winners by the other team’s walkover.
In April 2023, the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) disciplinary committee penalised the club and coach. Vukomanovic was handed a 10-match suspension and a fine of Rs 5 lakhs.
As a result, the coach will not be able to attend the opening fixture.
Kerala Blasters played three games each in the Super Cup and the Durand Cup since the penalty, and Vukomanovic will have to wait for four more games to earn his presence in the dugout.
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In the second match, Manolo Marquez’s FC Goa will go up against his former side Hyderabad FC. Defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face off against new entrants Punjab FC in the third match.
The fourth match will see Durand Cup runners-up East Bengal host former league shield winners Jamshedpur FC before Mumbai City FC takes an away trip to Guwahati to play against NorthEast United FC. And Sergio Lobera’s Odisha FC will take on Owen Coyle’s Chennaiyin FC.
According to sources, the organisers are working on a couple of windows for the Super Cup with some in favour of hosting the tournament during the break for Asian Cup 2023. National team players will be away in Doha for the continental showpiece but all others, including foreigners, will be available.