Kerala Blasters FC’s fiery attack meets Bengaluru FC’s stubborn wall in Southern rivalry
The two sides have experienced contrasting fortunes this ISL season, but their distinct strengths promise to create an exciting matchup when they face off.

Bengaluru FC have established themselves as the team to beat in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, enjoying a remarkable start with an unbeaten record and four wins out of five matches. Currently sitting at the top of the table, they are the only team in the league without a loss this season.
With 13 points from their first five games, Bengaluru FC has matched their best-ever start since the 2018-19 season, raising hopes for another successful campaign after their ISL Cup victory that year.
This Friday, the Blues will face off against Kerala Blasters FC for the first time this season, presenting one of their toughest challenges yet in their quest for the Shield. The clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi is set to reignite one of the league's fiercest rivalries, known for its intense matchups and the passionate banter between supporters.
Defence vs attack
Bengaluru FC's remarkable unbeaten streak this season is largely down to their impenetrable defence, which has yet to concede a goal. This includes shutouts against formidable opponents like defending League Shield holders Mohun Bagan Super Giant and last season's ISL Cup winners, Mumbai City FC. Their defensive prowess has led to the joint-longest scoreless run in league history, showcasing their resilience at the back.
While Bengaluru comfortably occupies the top spot, Kerala Blasters FC sits sixth after five matches. A victory in Kochi would significantly narrow the gap, bringing them within just two points of the Blues. The Blasters possess the offensive firepower to make that happen.
Although they have not managed a clean sheet this season, unlike Bengaluru, Kerala Blasters FC has found the net in every match. With three of their first five games played away, they have demonstrated an ability to challenge any team, regardless of venue. Their resilience has been evident as they've fought back to secure seven points after conceding first in three matches. This bodes well for Mikael Stahre's side, who are currently unbeaten in their last four outings.
Fortress Kochi
Kerala Blasters FC may have faced an early defeat at home this season against Punjab FC, but they remain renowned for their intimidating atmosphere at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where the fervent support of their fans creates a daunting challenge for visiting teams. Historically, the Blasters have excelled in home matches against Bengaluru FC, having won every encounter in this rivalry since the 2019-20 season (excluding the bubble season from 2020-22).
In fact, it has been six years since Bengaluru last claimed victory in Kochi, with their last win dating back to November 2018, when they triumphed 2-1. They have lost their last three encounters at this venue and have yet to keep a clean sheet, contributing to their struggles.
“They (Bengaluru FC) haven’t conceded a goal yet, hopefully tomorrow (on Friday, they do). That's absolutely our target,” Kerala Blasters FC head coach Mikael Stahre said, laying down the gauntlet.
He went on to say: “It’s a hard home game for us but it’s a tricky away game for them as well.”
Bengaluru FC, on the other hand, are enjoying an exceptional run of form, but a win in Kochi would not only grant them bragging rights but also boost their confidence moving forward. While they remain unbeaten, all four of their victories have come at home, leaving head coach Gerard Zaragoza keen to secure their first win on the road.
“If we want to achieve something, we need to win games away from home. We cannot win just matches at home. If not, we will have the same struggles as last season,” Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza said.
As the two sides take to the pitch, all eyes will be on Kochi to see if Bengaluru FC can break their away hoodoo or if the Blasters will continue their dominance at home, adding another chapter to this storied rivalry.