Kochi (Kerala) [India], September 14 (ANI): Kerala Blasters FC is all set to launch their Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 campaign with a highly anticipated clash against Punjab FC. The match will take place at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Sunday, kicking off at 7:30 pm IST. This encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle as both teams are embarking on new journeys under fresh leadership, each guided by newly appointed head coaches who are eager to lead their squads to new heights this season.

This game marks the third meeting between Kerala Blasters FC and Punjab FC, with each side having claimed victory once in their previous duels. Kerala Blasters FC, celebrated for their ardent supporters, are aiming to continue their impressive record of winning their opening matches, potentially marking their third consecutive season of such triumphs.

Punjab FC enters this season with heightened confidence after an impressive conclusion to their maiden ISL campaign last year, which saw them secure a commanding 4-1 victory over East Bengal FC. A win against Kerala Blasters FC would not only provide Punjab FC with their first-ever consecutive ISL victories but also solidify their ambitions to establish a strong foundation for the upcoming season.

Kerala Blasters’ new head coach, Mikael Stahre, brings a wealth of experience from managing top teams across Europe and Asia before taking on his new role in India. Stahre has already expressed his optimism about the team’s potential.

“They are a very eager group, always ready to put in maximum effort. We have a good mixture of youth and experience and also foreign players. But all of them have a huge drive; they want to improve themselves, and they want to achieve something significant for this club,” Stahre shared.

On the other side, Punjab FC has welcomed Panagiotis Dilmperis as their new head coach. This marks Dilmperis’ first coaching assignment in Asia, and he is thrilled about the opportunity to make an impact in Indian football. He emphasized the club’s continuous progress and dedication to quality over quantity.

“Punjab FC is moving forward every year. They are taking quality steps forward and everyone at the club, including the director (Nikolaos Topoliatis), is focused on quality more than quantity. This is a great challenge for me because this season we have to do one step better than last season. The previous season was also good, especially in the second half,” Dilmperis remarked.

As both teams prepare for this crucial opening match, fans can expect a display of tactical brilliance and intense competition, setting the stage for an exhilarating ISL season ahead.