ISL | A brand new-look Blasters tackle a decided Punjab

All in readiness: KBFC, which was overwhelmed by PFC in Kochi final season, has its activity minimize out.
| Picture Credit score: THULASI KAKKAT

Regardless of letting go of Dimitrios Diamantakos, the ISL’s high scorer final season, Kerala Blasters has been scoring loads of objectives within the pre-season in Thailand and within the Durand Cup the place its Moroccan ahead Noah Sadaoui took the Golden Boot award.

And Mikael Stahre, the brand new head coach, might be hoping Sadaoui and Spaniard Jesus Jimenez proceed their wonderful type in Blasters’ ISL season-opener in opposition to Punjab FC on the Nehru Stadium right here on Sunday.

“We’ve been fairly strong so we’re completely prepared however the video games within the ISL will inform us the place we stand. It will likely be a tough recreation however hopefully we are able to beat them,” stated Stahre.

Punjab beat Blasters 3-1 in Kochi in its debut ISL yr final season and the 2 completed stage 1-1 within the current Durand Cup. Blasters, which might be led by their star Adrian Luna, made the ISL playoff final season after ending fifth whereas Punjab completed eighth and missed the minimize.

In the meantime, PFC’s head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis felt the adjustments within the crew would present in its efficiency.

“We’ve a brand new teaching workers, new overseas and Indian gamers and that’s the largest distinction from final season,” stated Dilmperis. “This season we’ll attempt to higher the efficiency from final yr and qualify for the playoffs.”