Conclusion!

ISL's following beat Serie A's popularity! That's a reason to cheer...

India's first football journey has come to an end with Atletico de Kolkata as the 1st champion. Kolkata beat Kerala by a solitary goal that came from Mohammed Rafique, who came as a substitute for Mohammed Rafi. Pody set up the ball and Rafique headed it straight into the net. The goal surprisingly came in the added time, will go down in ISL's history. Kerala had more shots on target but Kolkata had slightly higher ball possession.

There was a huge roar nationwide. Irrespective of the teams they supported, all the football crazy fans were ecstatic and content as the season successfully concluded. There is a hope that ISL will raise football's bar in India and will recognize domestic players.

There was a long list of awards that were distributed in the post match ceremony. After due consideration, we have prepared our own set of awards.

• BEST TEAM - FC GOA. Zico's men had the worst start of the League. No one could have imagined that they will reach into the semi finals. Not only this, their team spirit was commendable. The way they held Kolkata in their last matches proved that they deserve this award.
• BEST PLAYER - ELANO BLUMER (CHENNAIYIN FC). The Brazilian is the highest goal scorer of the league, despite missing a few matches due to an injury. He won the golden boot award and gave away the price money for the development of football in India. 
• BEST COACH - MATERRAZI (CHENNAIYIN FC) and DAVID JAMES (KERALA BLASTERS): Both the bosses did an incredible job. Although both the managers had different approaches, one helped his team to maintain the top position while the other was able to take his team to the finals.
• BEST GOALKEEPER - SUBRATA PAUL ( MUMBAI FC). Although his team failed to create a mark, the Keeper was a delight to watch. At times, it was only because of him that the opponent failed to score. He was often seen exposed but with sharp reflexes, he managed pretty well.
• BEST CAPTAIN - LUIS GARCIA (ATLETICO DE KOLKATA). The Spaniard was always his manager's first choice. He was commanding on the field and steered them towards victory.
• MOST VERSATILE PLAYER - HANS MULDER ( DELHI DYNAMOS). The Dutch midfielder was Delhi's one of the most consistent player. He managed the mid field, guarded the Keeper and scored some goals. He was a team himself. 

Now for some not-so-good awards.

• MOST DISAPPOINTING TEAM - NORTHEAST UNITED FC. This is the team that was supposed to make atleast to the semi finals. Northeast is famous for producing some of the best football players ever, including Baichung Bhutia. They had a good start but ended with a whimper.
• MOST DISAPPOINTING PLAYER - FIKRU ( ATLETICO DE KOLKATA). The Ethiopian player scored ISL's first scored but later on proved to be of no good. He was aggressive and faced a three match long ban. He was excluded from the team and the reason remained a secret.
• MOST DISAPPOINTING COACH - HARM VAN VELDHOVEN (DELHI DYNAMOS). This manager never chose appropriate starting eleven. He took too much of risk every time that it pushed his team into the dearth. He had Italian legend, Del Piero, in his team but due to some personal issues he did not use him well.
• MOST AGGRESSIVE TEAM - ATLETICO DE KOLKATA. This is the team that was the most controversial throughout the season. With players and Managers facing bans, yellow and red cards, this team surely didn't win our hearts.

This is what we think about the teams and the players. You can go to the official site for the official list. We have faith that the League will keep on getting better and the idea behind it, to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2022, will come true. Thank you for being a part of this journey.
Stay tuned for more myriad stuff!

FC Goa vs Atlectico de Kolkata!

Goa and Kolkata will lock horns in the second leg of the semi finals. It  is ISL's most talked about rivalry. The fans are all set to see their respective team win.

Courtesy:ISL

The first match of the second leg was hosted by Kolkata at the Salt Lake Stadium, where it all started. Fikru missed the game following his injury and Goan defender, Bruno was on suspension. The match started with Amiri's strong challenge on Borja. the home team had a good start but dominated the attack index marginally. It seemed like this time Borja was on target. After Amiri, it was Slepicka who troubled the Spaniard by kicking on  his leg and received a yellow card as a consequence. Pody's free kick was rightly directed by Borja. As soon as Nato stepped in to provide the final touch, Gregory blocked him. That looked like a penalty but the referee thought otherwise. The visitors led the attack index for the rest of the game but the meeting ended in a goalless draw. Garcia wasted many telling chances with his wide shots. The problem was similar with the visitors. Mandar cut past two defenders and passed the ball to unmarked Romeo who shot it just wide. Slepicka shot straight into the hands of Edel while Santos' shot lacked power. Both the teams now had an important match that would decide their fate. 

Courtesy:ISL

The second match was hosted by Goa and to everyone's surprise, Fikru was excluded from the team, reason being unclear. The fans awaited to see their teams break the dead lock as the earlier part of the semi final ended in a goalless draw. Every game the teams play, start with one or the other kind of foul. This time Pody was brought down by Gregory and Kolkata received a free kick. It was the home team that lead the first period of the attack index. Sanju came with a brilliant series of passes, defeating all the defenders but the final shot, taken by Pody, was off side. This time it were Kolkata who could have received a penalty as Arnab put in a sliding tackle and hit Santos on his leg. There was just a minute long added time at the conclusion of the the first half but plenty of extra time at the end of 90 minutes. The game was stretched to 120 minutes and only saw some substitutions, set pieces, sloppy work but no goal! It all came down to ISL's first penalty shoot out. Goa won the toss but lost the round. Santos and Amiri shot over the cross bar while Kolkata had all the successful shots. Goa highly dominated the attack index for the entire game but Kolkata made it to the finals on penalty.

Courtesy:ISL

Goa and Kolkata became rivals early in the season. Kolkata had a terrific start while Goa sat at the bottom of the table during the entire first round. As the League progressed, we saw Goa raising their game. Zico's men were fierce. In these matches we witnessed Goa's zeal and Kolkata's fear. Goa ruled the attack index for both the matches; Kolkata, however, made it to the finals on shoot out. Garcia will have to raise his game following Fikru's exclusion. It will be Kolkata vs Kerela in the finals.

Chennai vs Kerala (2)

Chennaiyin have a tough task ahead of them. They have a trail over them of three goals. They have been one of the best teams of the league but a lose here would send them out of the competition. They were the first team to qualify for the knockouts but if they fail today, all will be nugatory. Chennaiyin changed their tactics. They put five defenders to contain Kerala's forward while Elano was not in the starting line up. The Brazilian was not at his best in their earlier encounter.

Chennaiyin FC (3) - Kerala Blasters (1)

Formation: 4-3-3 and 4-1-3-2

Courtesy:ISL

Chennaiyin started their home game with a mighty spirit. They looked fierce and confident. Chopra could have upset Chennaiyin heart but was off side. A corner and a yellow card to the men in yellow. The game maintained its pace since the beginning. The home side's manager put in a cross for Maurice but the Frenchman's shot was saved by Sandip who excelled in the previous game. Djemba- Djemba headed the ball, led by Dhana, towards the goal. Forcada stopped it clearly with his hands but instead of a hand ball, ref gave a yellow to Djemba- Djemba. The visitors looked rather infuriated with the decision. Materazzi and Jeje troubled Sandip with their moves. Abhishek came in for injured Dhana. That was a thing to worry for the home team. Chopra and Hume on counter attack but Hume's second touch allowed Shilton to collect the ball. Hume is Kerala's favorite but at times we have seen the Canadian commit some serious mistakes. McAlister received a second yellow card for kicking Mendy and was sent off the field. The visitors were down to 10 men! Romey for Forcada. Mendy with telling run and a cross but none of the teammates was present to tap the ball in. Romey gave away free kick at a dangerous position. Materazzi took it and Silvestre sent it straight at the back of the net. Goal for Chennai.

It was a laborious first half for the teams and Chennai solely ruled the attack index but they needed to push harder in the second half if they wanted a place in the finals.

Courtesy:ISL

Jhingan pushed Maurice and gave away a penalty to the home team in the dawning minutes of the second half. Materazzi took it and it was goal but wait, how can a semi final progress without some drama. The ref ruled out the goal as Maurice ran inside the box. Materazzi took it again but it was a wide shot. Unbelievable that was! Nesta picked up a hamstring injury and was substituted by Elano. A roar there. Another hamstring injury. Sandip was on the ground, received some treatment and the game progressed. Some push and pull, Elano booked. A tussle between Mendy and Jhingan. Gurwinder came in from nowhere and kicked Mendy to give another free kick to Chennai. That was stupid. Jhingan, who gave away a penalty, scored for the opposite team. He tried to chest the ball to Sandip but as the keeper struggled with his hamstring, he failed to collect the ball and it went straight inside the net. Own goal. Pelissari for Djemba- Djemba and finally, Luis for Sandip. Milagres for Hume. Yellow for Maurice. Jeje scored the third goal for Chennai at the 90th minute. In the added time, Elano took Luis by surprise. He was far away from the box but took a shot which forced Luis to run . Brilliant from the Brazilian.

Courtesy:ISL

Chennai evened the score with Kerala through Jeje in the dying minutes of the game. The referee signaled towards the extra time. It was a 120 minutes long game. Both the teams tried hard. There were some challenges and tackles,  yellow card and telling chances but the final and glorious goal came from Stephen Pearson. Kerala made to the finals by a margin of one goal.
It was the  most game of the League so far. Chennai ruled the attack index for the entire match and scored three unthinkable goals but Pearson's final strike shattered the home team's dream of being the first champion. Tears in the eyes of the crowd and the player but this how football is. Chennai dominated the league but one lose here and the journey ended.

                                                          *read about Kolkata vs Goa in our next article.

Day 63, Match 57

First match of the first leg of semi finals; clash of the best four. Kerala plays host for the southern derby. It was not only James vs Metarazzi but also Tendulkar vs Dhoni . Elano returned from his injury after a long time but James had to serve his term of ban. Chennai have won all the previous games against the blasters but it was a different story this time.

Kerala Blasters FC (3) - Chennaiyin FC (0)

Formation: 4-4-2 and 5-3-2

Courtesy:ISL

The home team started the proceeding by building pressure on the guests. Ahmed and Chopra made a good start. Jeje received a brilliant ball from Mendy and, despite having ample time and space, sent the ball straight into the keeper's hands. A goal in the opening minutes of the game gives a boost to the scoring team. Jeje missed a golden opportunity. Elano Blumer took a free kick. The free kick specialist and ISL's goal scoring machine, however, failed this time and looked disappointed. Jeje eschewed himself to take a moment to read the ball and instead, headed it straight into the hands of the keeper. The guests lead the attack index for the first period but marginally. McAllister's goal through Hume's corner was declared off side. The exuberant crowd went numb with the decision. Ahmed removed his jersey and was booked (like van Persie). Why? Because he scored! he took a first time right footed shot, beat Bracigliano and scored. The crowd came to life again. Kerala scored their second goal for the evening just after two minutes of the first one. This time it was Kerala's favourite boy, Iain Hume. Ahmed twisted his ankle and had to be attended. Through Silvestre, Chennai tried to open their account but Sandip denied them and the first half was over.

Courtesy:ISL

Chennai had a tough task ahead of them as the second half commenced. Elano was substituted for Pelissari. It was predictable as the Brazilian was struggling in his come back match after an injury. Pelissari stepped into Elano's shoes as he took a free kick following Chopra's hand ball. Mendy put in great efforts but was wide. Another injury for the home team as McAllister hit hard the surface while trying to direct the ball with his head. Barisic for Chopra and Denson for Abhishek. Chennai received a free kick at a dangerous position but Pelissari shot it straight into the keeper's grip. Bracigliano and Hume indulged in a heated argument and the Keeper gave a shoulder push to the forward. Jeje failed to exploit on Sandip's mistake. That was an unguarded post and Jeje missed it. A goal came during the injury time (4 minutes) and was again from the home team. Hume assisted, Sushanth scored and got booked because taking off clothes is not allowed (although we can't see any problem in this way of celebration!). Kerala won by a considerate margin.

Courtesy:ISL

Chennai had more possession but they definitely lacked in all the areas as opposed to their competition, especially defence. Sandip was hit many times but was able to maintain a clean sheet. Barcigliano looked a little distracted . Chennai will have to work really hard if they want to make it to the finals. All the previous wins will take them nowhere. It's a do or die situation for them .

Day 59 and 60, Match 54, 55 and 56

• Kerala and Mumbai can qualify for the semifinals with a win but a draw will see both the teams out of the league. 
• As the Salt Lake Stadium hosts match no. 55, we witness the famous Kolkata vs Goa rivalry. Goa has already qualified for the knockouts and Kolkata can qualify even if the match ends in a draw.
• Neither Northeast nor Mumbai can qualify for the next stage. The result of the last match before the knockouts will only decide who will sit at the bottom of the table.

Kerala Blasters FC (1) - FC Pune City (0)

Formation: 4-4-2 and 4-3-1-2

Courtesy:ISL

For the first period of the game, it was Pune that lead the attack index with the help of their midfielder Mady. He was on charge, shaking the home team's defence, but couldn't score. The game changed when he produced an illegitimate tackle on Iain Hume. Kerala's favourite Canadian striker took the free kick. His curling ball touched Arindham's finger tips but finally landed at the bottom right corner of the net. The crowd went crazy! The visitors dominated the attack index for the entire first half of the game, with a huge difference, but it was Kerala that capitalised the only chance given to them. Pune were on attack even in the second half of the game. Soon, the home team took over. McAllister and Hume went searching for another goal but Arindham was quick to deny them. As the game progressed, the ownership of the attack index shifted from the visitors to the home side. Arindham's fault let Milagres acquire the ball. The Indian forward could have easily scored as the goal was unguarded but he sent it over the cross bar. James must have been infuriated with that. There was Eight minutes of added time! Katsouranis' cross to Ashutosh was blocked by Sandip (ouch!). These eight minutes tested Kerala's defence as Pune were continously attacking (attack index: 90% - 10%). At the end, Kerala won by a solitary goal.

Atletico de Kolkata (1) - FC Goa (1)

Formation: 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-1-2

Courtesy:ISL

Kolkata vs Goa and Fikru vs Gregory. As expected, the game started with some drama. Bengelloun intercepted Fikru's cross with his shoulder but the Ethiopian striker was adamant that it was a handball. The decision went against the home side. Baljit Sahni failed to exploit a defensive error made by the visitors. The home team successfully created pressure on the visitors with their play but like match 54, it was the weak team that scored first. Martins' shot was blocked by Borja but Edgar received it with ease and scored. The pressure shifted from Goa to Kolkata. The second half came with a corner for Kolkata which the home side failed to convert into a goal. Goa have a strong defence system. Baljit and Jewel in a tussle for the ball, pulling each other and a free kick was given to the visitors. Fikru, Garcia and Pody raised their team's attack index to 93% but could only score from a spot kick. Pinheiro brought down Fikru down and received a red card while giving away a penalty. The Ethiopian striker then, equalized the score. Pody and Fikru were fighting! The game ended with identical score and a Goan defender with a red card.

Northeast United FC (1) - Mumbai City FC (1)

Formation: 4-4-1-1 and 4-1-3-2

Courtesy:ISL

Kick off with hand ball for Mumbai and Free kick for Northeast. Both the teams put in equally appreciable efforts. The stats did not vary much. The highlights of the game were Deeepak's tackle on Josl that gave away a penalty to the Northeast which Koke scored, Didika's shot that beat the Keeper only to hit the pole and a late equalizer by Sushil for the home team. Mumbai had more ball possession but with a marginal difference. They had more on target shots and committed more fouls too.  The season concluded for both the teams with this match. Northeast occupies the last place and Mumbai occupies the second last position in the League with a deference of a lone point.

Courtesy:ISL

We have always extolled Kerala in our articles but we truly believe that this match belonged to Pune. Hume was fortunate to receive a free kick that changed the expected result. Kerala made it to the semi finals but Pune will definitely be remembered for the fight they put in. They dominated the entire game, except for one quadrant. it was hard to believe that they couldn't even equalize the score.
Kolkata have reached into the semi finals. After considering others' views, we realised that it is not only us who are not pleased with the tigers. There is no team spirit. The players fight amongst themselves and the coach is always vexed. Even if this team wins, we'll not be celebrating it (sorry Kolkata, but its is true!). 

Day 54 and 55, Match 52 and 53

Mumbai's final home game of the league and they must win it if they want to qualify for the knockouts, although, their chances are bleak. A win for Kolkata will assure their birth in the knockouts. It is an important game for both the sides.

Delhi had a tough nut to crack as they flew to Chennai. Chennai have been defeated only once at the home ground (by FC Goa). If Delhi win, they can expect a place in the final four. If they lose, they will be out of the League and if it is a draw, then, it will depend on other matches. Del Piero has not scored yet in the League and surprisingly (or not!), he is not in starting eleven again.

Mumbai City FC (2) - Atletico de Kolkata (1)

Formation: 4-4-1-1 and 4-2-3-1

Courtesy:ISL

Kolkata started the game by giving away a foul as Borja brought down Stohanzl on to the turf. The Spaniard then sent the ball off post. Anelka replied to the visitor's attack but Edel made an impressive save. Nabi picked up an injury yet again. He pulled his hamstring's muscle and was substituted by Asif. Mumbai's captain started his journey with an injury and has struggled a lot since. He has hurt himself in every game against Kolkata! Luis Garcia hit his knee but continued. The home team dominated the attack index for the first period. Anelka displayed great skills. He was able to turn the ball towards the box even when it was way out of the reach. Paul was conscious of Kingshuk's strike. He came charging to deny him. Didika received a yellow for a stupid and a rather unnecessary tackle. Tiago with the ball and Didika's left footed shot gave shrills to the home audience as Mumbai successfully opened their account for the evening. In the added time, Fikru looked into momentum for the first time but the shot he took was a mediocre one. Kolkata started the second half of the game. Fikru, who once threatened every defender, was easily contained by Cmovs. Didika just saved himself from giving away a penalty. His tackle on Fikru was very serious. Garcia played a perfect playmaker by providing the ball to Borja who, in turn, passed it on to Sahni. The Indian forward made no mistake and the visitors cancelled Didika's goal. Kolkata led the attack index. Fikru's shots have started to go wide than to find the net.  Didika took a free kick away from the post, Friedrich did not miss it and scored. Although it were Kolkata who dominated the attack index of the second half, Mumbai managed to win the game from set pieces.

Chennaiyin FC (2) - Delhi Dynamos (2)

Formation: 4-3-1-2 and 4-2-3-1

Courtesy:ISL

With the kick off, Chennai asserted why they deserve to be at the top. Attack by Pelissari and counter attack by another Brazilian, Dos Santos. As we set ourselves to witness Pelissari taking the corner kick, the crowd roared and it was then that we realised that Pelissari has sent his curling ball straight at the back of the net. Brilliant! Absolutely Brilliant! It takes skills to score by defeating a 6'10'' tall keeper. Delhi led the attack index but it was the home side that ruled the score board. Junker's injury 'forced' Veldhoven to bring Del Piero on the field. There was some cheer for that. Jeje's goal gave shivers to the visitors. Chennai had lead by two goals before the half time and they looked content while walking towards the dressing room. The second half started on a positive note for Delhi as it was their Marquee player who netted his first goal of the League. Del Piero received a free kick. He measured the distance and it was a goal. Simple and Effortless! Materazzi looked animated on Balwant's fault of being hasty in taking an otherwise easy shot. Attack index in Delhi's favour. After a few substitutions and set pieces, Mulder's equalizer stole the lime light of the match. When Mulder received the ball back from Dos Santos, he did not care for anything. It was 88 minute on the clock; he came charging and scored Delhi's second goal. Dos Santos with a final strike in 90th minute but the post denied him and Skoubo received a red card. Tough luck! The game ended in a draw. This will not affect the home team but can ruin Delhi's chances of playing in the semi finals.

Courtesy:ISL

Fikru has failed to keep up with the name he created for himself before the ban. He will always be remembered for scoring Hero ISL's first goal but will not be called 'one of the best players' of the League. The assurance that he once provided has lost now. Didika's fouls were uncalled for. Mumbai still stands a chance for the knockouts.
Along with Fikru, there is another striker that has failed to shine despite having ample opportunities. Balwant, we think, has been struggling to maintain a consistent form. Del Piero proved why he is the Italian stallion. His precision helped to recourse a low spirited Delhi. Wish he had seen him more in action during the League. This draw landed Delhi in a tricky situation. It all depend on the following matches.

Day 52 and 53, Match 50 and 51

A win for Goa would assure the visitors a place in the semi finals.  Alessandro Nesta, Chennai's newest signing will be used in the later stage and Blumer is still not available following his injury.

Pune's last home game of the League. Delhi's win will keep the hopes alive for all the five teams in the tournament.

Chennaiyin FC (1) - FC Goa (3)

Formation: 4-1-3-2 and 4-2-3-1

Chennai started the game with a declaration that they are the table toppers as Pelissari made Seda dive in the second minute of the kick off. Inspired by his team mate, Cristian tricked the Goan defender and Seda had to dive again. Andre Santos is tackled by Mendy and the captain received a booking for it. An argument cropped up between the teams forcing the referee to raise his hand again to show Cristian a yellow card. The home side dominated the first fifteen minutes. A weaker looking Goan side, with some great team efforts, broke the deadlock to acquire lead in the game. Shilton deflected Amiri's strike but Romeo managed to keep it in the game only to smack it in the right corner! Chennai received two free kicks but failed to utilize it. Romeo hurt, physio on the field. The pole denied Andre Santos to score from the free kick but the Brazilian was quick enough to score the second goal for Goa. Goa had a lead by two goals before the half time. Goa looked confident as the second half started. Djordjic came in for Eric Djemba-Djemba as no.99 looked uncomfortable with a groin injury. Amiri gave away a free kick for using his hand. The reply, however, proved that the ball went off his chest. with the substitution of Pelissari for Maurice, Chennai used up all the three substitutions of the match. Slepicka scored the third goal for Goa. Shilton deviated Narayan's strike towards Slepicka who took complete advantage of the situation. Chennai looked completely disheartened. Chennai presented a weak form in the later part of the game. Silvestre put in a good pass for Balwant who headed it wide. This was very disappointing. He did it again when Khabra provided him with the ball inside the penalty area. Maurice scored a goal in the final minute of the game. Zico's men were on fire and gave Chennai their first home defeat.

FC Pune City (0) - Delhi Dynamos (1)

Formation: 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3

With the kick off Mulder's contact with Pennant hurt the Englishmen on the right shoulder. Kwang-ll Park had two free kicks which he delivered persistently but lack of efforts from his team mates snatched some telling chances from the home team. Dos Santos put in a curling ball but Junker hit it to the left post. Delhi lead the attack index for the first fifteen minutes. Vadocz hit Adil on his foot and the visitors received a free kick on a dangerous position. Dos Santos on strike but sent the ball over the cross bar. The Brazilian forward deliberately used his hand to control the ball only to attract a yellow card. Delhi led the second period of the attack index as well. Good play by Junker and Santos that made Arindham to dive. Pole denied Pennant a goal and the home team a lead. None of the teams could score in the first half but the attack index for the third period favoured the home side. Arindham dived towards his right to prevent Shylo from scoring and managed to do so with his sharp reflexes as the ball was saved from the left side. Junker took a shot but Arindham deflected it for a corner. Ravanan 'took the ball on his chest' by Santos. Del Piero for Shylo!! Dos Santos made a telling run and from a tight angle netted the ball to break the dead lock and to provide the visitors with a lead in the dying minutes of the game. Four minutes of added time could not do much for the home team and they lost their last home game of the season.

Goa have started playing well at the right time. With a win over the table toppers, they secured their birth for the knock outs.
Delhi won the game but it wasn't a great performance by them. Their win ensured the other five teams that they can still fight for a place in the semi finals. 

Day 50 and 51, Match 48 and 49

When Pune and Mumbai last met, the dream city demolished their opponent with a 5-0 win. Now was the perfect time for Pune to take revenge of their defeat in their own background.

It was essential for Northeast to win this match or at least settle for a draw if they want to be in the League. A lose here would see them leaving the game because of low points.

FC Pune City (2) - Mumbai City FC (0)

Formation: 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2

Courtesy:ISL

Even though it is Maharashtran derby and not Manchester derby, we still feel pretty exited! The guests, Mumbai, started the game but soon it was Pune's Pritam who was running with the ball. Dudu received the ball from Pritam and sent it straight in the hands of the Keeper. Mumbai got a corner in the initial minutes of the match but Friedrich headed it just above the bar. Kwang-11 Park created pressure on the visitors with his dribbling and passing skills. Paul again denied Dudu. Katsouranis with an on-target shot. Paul really had to sweat because of Pune's continuous attacks. Pune highly dominated the attack index in the first half (92% to 8%). Costa got injured and Mumbai had to do a forced substitution; Didika entered. Cmovs was the only player in Mumbai's defence who tried really hard to protect Paul. Mumbai finally came into action at the brink of the first half but in that attempt Friedrich got injured as his head got collided with that of Abhishek's when the Indian forward was trying to direct the ball into the net. The second half began with a dramatic event. Didika's shot touched Pritam's hand and Mumbai derived a penalty out of it. Tiago took the shot and Arindham successfully stopped it by diving to his right. What a save it was! This not-so-powerful attack must have really given Reid a heart attack. Handball against Vadocz's shot. After a lot of show, the match saw its first goal. With Katsouranis' assist, Dudu finally broke the ice in the home teams favour. The duo brought delight to the supporters again as after a few minutes of the first goal, Katsouranis set up Dudu again and the Nigerian forward scored again. Mumbai lost all hope after two goals from Pune and it was prominent in their performance. Pune avenged their previous defeat!

Kerala Blaster FC (0) - Northeast United FC (0)

Formation: 4-1-3-2 and 3-4-3

Courtesy:ISL

The home team took charge early in the game with the help of their favourite Iain Hume. He first came with two continuous headers and then with a defence breaking run. Though he couldn't do much with it but it surely pressurized the visitors as the forward has early goals registered under his name. While clearing a ball, the Keeper ran into Hume and got hurt in the process. It was a neck to neck competition as Kerala presented their creative strikers while Northeast promoted their strong defence. Northeast finally had a chance to score the first goal of the evening through Felipe and Miguel Garcia but after a little struggle the ball was cleared. Pearson's shot was very near to the goal. Kerala were very close to find the opener but the first half did not see any ball in the net. The second half saw Hume once again deflecting the ball with his head. Orji was brought down by Len. This wasn't a penalty but it deserved some action as opposed to referee's decision to play-on. Milagres' ball hit Robin on the arm. We are certain that it was a penalty in home team's favour. James Keene reacted to hit Chopra for his tackle and was booked with a red card. Well, it was the home team that dominated the game till the end but couldn't score even in front of a team with ten players. Both the teams had to share points for this match.

Courtesy:ISL

It was an easy win for Pune against Ranbir Kapoor's team. For the other match, Kerala could have easily capitalised on the red card situation of their opponent. They created many telling chances and were fierce but at the end it is the score board that really matters. 

Day 49 and 50 , Match 46 and 47

Goa and Northeast won their previous matches which gave both the teams a boost. Capdevila is on a red card and his suspension means weak defence of the visitors. It was Northeast's chance to prove that they were worthy enough to hold second position in the first round. Baichung's land, however faced defeat away from home.

Kolkata desperately needed three points to secure their birth for the knockouts and Delhi wanted these three points to keep their hope in the League alive. After a short lived winning streak of two matches, Delhi had to settle for a draw with Kolkata on their home ground.

FC Goa (3) - Northeast United FC (0)

Formation: 4-2-3-1 and 3-5-2

Courtesy:ISL

The visitors started the came but lost possession way too early, giving Santos of the home team, a chance to create an early opportunity. Goa made it very clear to the Northeast that they mean some serious business. The home team used both the flanks and played some good crosses and passes. Northeast's defence, as predicted, was frail to an extent that Rehenesh had to work more as the fourth defender than a Keeper (no, we are not comparing him to Neuer). Mandar gave away a free kick to Boithang  by pulling him down. Mtonga pulled a muscle, adding to the woes of the visitors. Goa was more assertive since the beginning, stretching the gap in the attack index, as the game progressed. Romeo's left foot scored ISL's 100th goal! Goa with a lead. Following his injury, Mtonga made way for Keene. Chansa passed the ball to Keene who shot it just above the cross bar. That was the perfect space there where the visitors could have evened the score. Adinga's poor choice to pass the ball instead of taking the shot himself snatched away Northeast's second chance to cancel Romeo's goal. Slepicka couldn't see his opponents wasting such telling chances, so, he decided to double his team's tally. Goa walked in with high spirit as the ref blew half time's whistle. The second half brought no respite to the visitors. Their backline was already weak, Miguel Garcia twisted his ankle to cause more harm. Chansa slipped the ball. Unbelievable! Northeast lost another chance. Koke's shot forced Seda to dive. Garcia and Josl were tripped inside the box. That could have been a penalty but the ref didn't agree. Goa's Brazilian star assured his team of a home victory by netting their third goal of the evening. It was a comfortable win for the home side.

Delhi Dynamos (0) - Atletico de Kolkata (0)

Formation :4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1

Courtesy:ISL

Kolkata started the game by providing an early free kick to the home team. Junker with a chance to score but was easily contained by the defender. With an early free kick, we saw an early booking too. Kolkata's defender Arnab got the yellow card for his rash tackle on Arnab (predictable and expected from Kolkata!). The home team controlled the early minutes of the game. Souvik to Junker, Junker's shot deflected, Souvik collected it again but only to find the Keeper. Great team play by Delhi Dynamos and excellent presentation of skills by Edel. To deflect Pody's corner, van Hout left his line and fell. That was Kolkata's golden opportunity to break the ice but Masih's shot was nowhere near the net. Fikru came into action in the dying minutes of the first half but couldn't do much to flip their score. The first half saw no goal from either of the teams. The second half began with the home team substituting Souvik for Shylo. Dos Santos took the shot but the Keeper stretched and denied him. After a few feeble attempts came a series of free kicks and it favoured none! Although Delhi dominated the game till the end, They couldn't score. One of the justification for this draw is lack of creativity in front and strong defence system. This was true in case of both the teams, so, none of the teams could grab all the three points.

Courtesy:GoogleImages

With every passing game, Zico's men are proving their merit. Northeast needs to seriously work on their defence. The mystery behind using a player like Del Piero as a bench warmer has not only been nudging us but has started to built up a conversation in the newspapers and social media sites as well. There are speculations that it is the sour relationship of the manager and the player that is keeping the Italian international away from the turf. Whatever the reason maybe, we are concerned that it can spoil ISL's growth, making international players lose confidence in the League. Del Piero was the most excited signing of ISL and people really want to see him play (besides this is getting really frustrating too!). We sincerely hope that Harm van Veldhoven tries to understand this and makes his Marquee show some skills!  

Day 47 and 48, Match 44 and 45

 Pune have managed to score in their backyard every time and Kolkata never failed to score on others' ground, as a result, instead of a goalless draw we had a draw in which both the competitors scored and maintained their stats.

Kerala blasters have managed to rise form the scratch. No one believed that the team would be in top four. James has managed his team well but Chennai is a team everyone is scared of. They defeated Kerala for the second time.

FC Pune City (1) - Atletico de Kolkata (1)

Formation: 4-2-3-1 and 4-2-3-1

Courtesy:ISL

Pune were the leader in the dawn of the game. Katsouranis built up an opportunity for Davide who hit it wide. Kolkata soon took over and Podani (Pody) came with a goal for the visitors just within 11 minutes of the kick off. This was a shocker as it was the home team that was leading the attack index. Following this they failed to score from the free kick given to them in a dangerous position. Wadoo deserved a booking for tackling Pody on ankle. Vadocz brilliant on target volley was deflected by Edel. We felt bad for the midfielder. The home team looked desperate for an equalizer. They came up with a series of on target shots. Pennant, Dudu and Vadocz, all were brilliant but finally it was the Greek midfielder, Katsouranis, who took advantage of Josemi's poor clearance to cancel Pody's goal. Both teams scored one goal each before the half time. Kolkata opened the second half with Fikru in possession of the ball but ultimately it were the home team that seemed threatening. Edel punched Josemi (it was funny!). Kolkata must thank Edel for saving Katsouranis' powerful strike. Some action came from Garcia. As the game progressed the attack index started to tilt more in the home team's favour. Garcia with a wide shot. When Jofre (in a different hair cut) stepped in for Garcia, Pune fumbled a bit. he came and broke the defence with ease. In search of a winning shot, both the teams committed many unnecessary fouls. There  were illegal challenges that hurt players including Pody and Pennant but the score remained even.


Kerala Blasters (0) - Chennaiyin FC (1)

Formation: 4-4-2 and 4-3-1-2

Courtesy:ISL

The game started on a strange note with a foul in the second minute and Balwant's back header for no reason. He could have scored. No one had any idea about his action! Both the teams pushed hard for an opening goal. Chennai led the attacking index by 92% (wow, that is something). David James picked up an injury in their previous match. He did not recover well so had to leave the turf in between the game. Mendy provided Jeje with a perfect ball but the striker shot it above the crossbar. As the game progressed, the home team started to settle. Keepers definitely were having tough luck. Chennai's goalie collided with an opponent. Fortunately, he got back up soon but that was a powerful collision. Balwant was very sloppy. The first half saw no goal from either of the teams. Iain Hume started the second half by wasting the most profitable chance created by his team yet by shooting the ball off post. There were a lot of collisions happening in the game. Milagres ran into Mendy and Suarez while attempting an aerial. Silvestre received a yellow for his argument with the referee on a free kick given against his side. Pelissari for Cristian. The Brazilian substitute received the ball inside his own half. He ran all the way to the other half and scored! The goal came at eighty-seventh minute that made the home crowd go hush. Pelissari proved to be the super sub who fetched his team three points. Chennai have qualified for the knock-outs!

Courtesy:ISL

We have to say that each team fought very hard to earn the points but Chennai was sublime. We can not stop extolling this team. They maintained a wide gap in the attack percentage. They are a strong team that is getting more confident with each passing match.