The long-awaited for KBFC's fans Indian Super League (ISL) season kicks off 2024-25 as Kerala Blasters FC takes on Punjab FC at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Sunday, September 15, 2024. This new campaign’s starting match promises excitement as both teams have their new leaders and revamped player lineups.
Key Match Details:
Date: Sunday, September 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM IST
Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi
Broadcast: Sports 18 Network
Live Stream: JioCinema app and website
Kerala Blasters’ Fresh Start Under Mikael Stahre
For the Kerala Blasters FC, this will have a fresh season under the guidance of Swedish coach Mikael Stahre. Following his exit from Ivan Vukomanovic, who led the Blasters to three playoff appearances consecutively, Stahre is expected to lead the club to win its first ISL trophy among fans’ hope. In most of the seasons, Kerala Blasters has performed well but unable to translate such a performance into any piece of metal.
Kerala Blasters have a well-mixed troop featuring talents from home and outside under Stahre’s management. Therefore, to succeed, they must rely on their foreign recruitments even though there are weaknesses in their defense still apparent. The local supporters at Kochi always known for their passionate backing will hope for a victory as an introduction into the season.
Punjab FC’s New Era Under Panagiotis Dilmperis
In the new season, Punjab FC under Greek supervision of Panagiotis Dilmperis appears determined after ending last season in eighth position. The club has made significant changes by recruiting many new faces including foreign players aimed at strengthening their squad. Dilmperis has a herculean task ahead of him with hopes to help Punjab Fc finish strongly this year.
They are trying to make themselves as a strong contender in the ISL; therefore starting away at Kerala Blasters would be a perfect opportunity for them to prove themselves. Their major strength will be through their attack; consequently they’ll have to take advantage of any defensive weak points posed by Kerala.
Being on their home ground, Kerala Blasters would want to take full advantage of that and start the season strongly in front of their loyal fans. A tactical game is thus expected from both ends where Kerala Blasters are likely going to enjoy vast possession while Punjab Fc would focus on counterattack moves. The clash between Kerala’s world-class forwards and Punjab’s remodeled defense will certainly be one match highlights.
Both teams are in transition, making this match an unpredictable and exciting affair. Kerala Blasters will look to end their trophy drought this season, and a positive start will boost their confidence. Punjab FC, on the other hand, will be eager to prove they can compete with the top ISL teams and make a strong impression early in the season.
