Indian Super League Returns in Truncated Format After Months of Uncertainty
The long-awaited return of the Indian Super League has finally arrived, marking the end of months filled with administrative reshuffles, endless speculation, and significant uncertainty. The new edition, delayed by nearly four months, will feature a leaner and shorter format with everything to play for from the very first day.
Truncated Format and New Structure
With limited time remaining in the football calendar, the All India Football Federation has opted for a single round-robin format, completely scrapping the traditional second leg and playoff stages. This season will see 14 teams compete in a condensed schedule, with each side playing 13 matches across a three-month league. The team finishing at the top of the table will be crowned champion directly, eliminating any knockout phases.
This format creates 91 high-stakes matches where consistency alone will determine the ultimate winner. There will be no second chances or safety nets, making every match crucial from the opening whistle.
Opening Clashes and High-Voltage Start
The season kicks off with defending champions and Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant hosting Kerala Blasters FC at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday at 5pm. This fixture pits two of the largest fan bases in Indian football against each other, promising a high-voltage start to what promises to be a season unlike any other.
In the evening match, newly-promoted Inter Kashi will face their first test against Super Cup champions FC Goa in an away clash beginning at 7.30pm. Both matches set the tone for what should be an intense and unpredictable campaign.
Months of Uncertainty and Administrative Challenges
The season's launch comes as a major relief for participating clubs after months of uncertainty that threatened the league's very existence. The Indian Super League had been hanging in the balance over the past few months following the exit of Football Sports Development Limited—the Reliance-backed company that launched and ran the ISL since 2014—after its Master Rights Agreement with the AIFF ended.
With no immediate clarity on who would take charge, serious doubts emerged about whether the season would even take place. Months of uncertainty finally eased only after the Union Sports Ministry intervened, helping the AIFF put a new arrangement in place and ensuring that the country's top-tier football competition could proceed.
Unresolved Issues and Broadcast Details
Despite the season moving forward, not everything is fully settled. Several teams are still finalizing their squads, with a few expected to begin the season without foreign players. There has already been disruption before kickoff, with the February 16 fixture between Odisha FC and Punjab FC being put on hold as Odisha are yet to confirm their home venue.
Broadcast plans also remained unclear until late in the build-up. It has now been confirmed that all matches will be streamed on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports Ten 2, according to an official AIFF release.
Team Preparations and Coach Perspectives
On the field, Mohun Bagan enter as clear favorites. The core of last season’s title-winning squad remains intact, and playing in front of their passionate supporters gives them an early psychological edge. Head coach Sergio Lobera made it clear that excuses will not be entertained in this challenging format.
"It will be a difficult season for everyone, but finally, this is the moment to try and find solutions and not find excuses," Lobera stated. Forward Dimi Petratos struck a confident note, adding, "We have the best squad in the country and we have trained well and we have come here to win."
The Blasters, however, have strengthened key areas with new foreign signings and believe they can spoil the party. Head coach David Català acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic about their chances.
"They are defending champions and best team in the country but in football everything is possible and one never knows what's going to happen. We are focused on tomorrow's game and we will try to get all three points," Català said.
FC Goa vs Inter Kashi Preview
FC Goa, who have had competitive exposure this season, will look to use that rhythm to their advantage against the debutants. Head coach Manolo Márquez expects a tight contest against Inter Kashi.
"My expectations are that it will be a difficult and a very equal game for both the teams," Márquez commented.
Inter Kashi, promoted after winning the I-League, arrive with ambition and belief. Head coach Antonio Habas emphasized the importance of making a strong first impression in their maiden ISL campaign.
"It’s very important to create your first impression. We have to do really good in our first ISL season," Habas stated, highlighting the significance of their debut match.
