Kolkata, February 13: After almost four months of delay, the Indian Super League is finally set to kick off tomorrow following all the ups and downs, with a fiery duel between the Mariners and Manjappada. The match will begin at 5:00 PM at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. Mohun Bagan SG, under new head coach Sergio Lobera, will begin their Shield-defending campaign against David Catala’s Kerala Blasters FC.

Ahead of the season opener, Kerala Blasters FC head coach David Catala admitted that his side did not have ideal preparation time, with only around two weeks to get ready for the competition. Despite the short build-up, he made it clear that the team will not hide behind excuses and is prepared to face any adversity, adding that the players have trained well in recent days and are determined to compete strongly in the first game

On the other hand, Mohun Bagan SG entered the Indian Super League in full tournament rhythm, having already competed in the Durand Cup and the IFA Shield, along with nearly two months of continuous training. However, new head coach Sergio Lobera does not see this as a big advantage. He said the past does not matter to him because he was not part of those tournaments. For him, this ISL season is a new beginning. He wants to focus on the present, build the team in his own way, and prepare for the challenges ahead.

Both teams completed their final training sessions with fully available squads ahead of the big clash. The camps looked sharp and focused, with every player involved as preparations reached their final stage.

For Mohun Bagan SG, there was added attention to their last-moment signing, Amey Ranawade, who has rejoined his former club. The defender trained with the squad and quickly blended into the session.

Coaches View:

As the new season approaches, Sergio Lobera expressed his excitement about finally getting the campaign starting after a long wait. The Mohun Bagan SG head coach emphasized that while he respects the opposition, his primary focus remains firmly on his own team and their responsibilities on the pitch.

“We are very excited to start the competition because finally, you know, it’s been a long time waiting for this moment. The most important thing for me is the point of focus, which is ours. We have the maximum respect for the opponents, but my main job, my main goal is to be with my team. The focus needs to be on ourselves, we need to know what we need to do.”

Ahead of the big clash, David Catala acknowledged the challenge his side will face against one of the strongest teams in the country. The Kerala Blasters FC head coach admitted it will be a tough contest but expressed confidence in his players mindset and readiness for the season opener.

“They are one of the best teams in the country, actually. But in football, whatever can happen. We came here with the best expectations. It’s true that it’s going to be a difficult game for us because they didn’t stop training. They have been training all this period and we didn’t know what could happen. The players, mentally, are focused. And they are ready to compete tomorrow.”

Kelara Blasters FC’s coach David Catala’s byte

Mohun Bagan SG’s coach Sergio Lobera’s byte

In the opening double-header of the Indian Super League, in the second fixture FC Goa will take on Inter Kashi from 7:30 PM at the Fatorda Stadium. One of the toughest Shield contenders from previous seasons, FC Goa begin their campaign against league debutants Inter Kashi in what seems to be an exciting contest.

The Indian Super League finally returns, bringing back the passion, the rivalry, and the electric atmosphere that defines Indian football’s biggest stage. The wait is over, the lights are on, and the battle for glory begins once again.