The 2022-23 Indian Super League (ISL) gets underway on Friday as last season’s runners-up Kerala Blasters host East Bengal FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi.
This season will be special as fans will be welcomed back to the stadiums after a gap of two seasons due to the pandemic. Teams will now have the support of their ‘12th Man’ yet again after missing them for two years.
Nita Ambani, founder and chairperson, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), on Thursday said that the upcoming season of ISL will be a key milestone for the league as well as Indian Football.
“India’s football journey has been a testament to the spirit of the beautiful game! With fans back at the stadiums and an extended football calendar, there is tremendous excitement and anticipation for the upcoming ISL season. Fans are the heart and soul of football and we are delighted to have them in the stands cheering for their teams again! Over the last few years, despite the challenges of the pandemic, ISL provided a solid platform for young talent and digital engagement to fans. I’m sure this year will see the emergence of many more domestic players and top-quality football!’ Ambani said ahead of the season opener.
This season, ISL will also provide fans easier access to live matches as the tournament shifts to more weekend-centric games from match week 3 onwards. This season has also been extended to feature a new playoff format that will involve the top six teams.
For the first time ever, the league stage will run for close to five months apart from the playoffs, semifinals and final. Each club will play 20 league matches – 10 each at home and away.
