Kolkata/Kochi, March 6 (NationPress) Both Mohammedan Sporting Club and Kerala Blasters are determined to secure their first points of the 2025-26 season as they prepare for their respective matches in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 this Saturday.

Mohammedan Sporting Club is set to face off against Bengaluru FC at the Kishore Bharti Krirangan in Kolkata, with both teams vying for an essential victory. Meanwhile, in another exciting fixture, Kerala Blasters FC will host Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi.

Coming into this match, Mohammedan Sporting has faced a tough start, with consecutive losses, including a heavy 1-5 defeat against Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The Black and White Brigade is eager to turn their fortunes around and finally earn points this season.

Currently, the Black and Whites find themselves at the bottom of the table, having yet to secure a point in three matches, while their opponents, Bengaluru FC, are positioned seventh with four points from their three outings.

Mohammedan SC head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo has highlighted the importance of managing the pressure that comes with competing in the ISL.

“Every match in the Indian Super League is a challenge. We are fielding an all-Indian squad, and it takes time to adapt to the pressure and intensity. The team is continuously developing and improving. We must play consistently to compete effectively against other ISL teams, and we need to perform at our best to achieve a positive outcome,” stated Wadoo.

Goalkeeper Padam Chettri added, “We need to spend more time together as a cohesive unit. Our results will follow.”

Bengaluru FC visits Kolkata hoping to recover from their first loss of the season. Currently ranked sixth with four points, they are coming off a disappointing 0-2 defeat against Punjab FC.

Historically, these teams have met twice in the ISL, with an equal record of one win and two goals each. The last encounter saw Mohammedan emerge victorious with a 1-0 away win in January 2025, thanks to a goal from Mirjalol Kasimov.

Recognizing the support from Mohammedan fans at the Kishore Bharti Krirangan, Bengaluru FC head coach Renedy Singh expressed the need to convert possession into goals.

“To win matches, we must score. It’s essential to avoid chasing the game. We need to defend well, maintain our shape, and seize scoring opportunities. Additionally, we must enhance our defense during set-pieces,” Singh remarked.

Midfielder Vinith Venkatesh shared, “The atmosphere in our dressing room is incredibly positive. Everyone is motivated to perform at their best and secure three points. We aim to win the next match to ascend the points table. Against Punjab, we fought hard until the end and created opportunities, but defensively we were not at our peak. We need to adhere to our strategy as a unit, and success will follow. I’m focused on contributing both offensively and defensively.”

As Mohammedan SC aims to earn their first points, Bengaluru seeks to return to winning form.

Winless Blasters Set to Face Chennaiyin Challenge

Kerala Blasters FC are ready to rebound and assert their dominance in the Southern Derby against Chennaiyin FC in what promises to be an exciting matchup. The home side remains point-less after three fixtures, placing them at the bottom of the league standings. They approach this match following a frustrating 1-2 loss to newcomers Inter Kashi FC.

Reflecting on his team's performance and the significance of playing at home, Kerala Blasters head coach David Català emphasized the necessity of maintaining a positive mindset and high intensity.

“It’s crucial to give our all with the right attitude, stay upbeat, and demonstrate our superiority over the full 90 minutes. Although everyone desires quick results, that isn’t always feasible. We are improving every day, and the energy and intensity within the camp are steadily increasing. It’s vital to confront adversities and make a comeback,” Català stated.

Forward Víctor Bertomeu commented, “I came here with the aim of achieving success as a team first. I believe goals will come as I work diligently every day and maintain my confidence. Scoring in the previous match was encouraging. Winning individual accolades would be fantastic, but my priority is to secure victories for this team. We are progressing with each match, and we must continue this trend to achieve results.”

Chennaiyin FC enters the match seeking their first victory of the season after a mixed start. They recently played to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Odisha FC, with Elsinho scoring a crucial stoppage-time header to earn their first point.

In their previous 24 encounters, Kerala Blasters slightly lead with eight wins to Chennaiyin FC’s seven, along with nine draws. The Blasters dominated their last meeting in January 2025, securing a 3-1 away win with goals from Jesús Jiménez, Korou Singh, and Kwame Peprah, while Vincy Barreto scored for Chennaiyin.

Regarding their recent performances, Chennaiyin FC head coach Clifford Miranda acknowledged the challenges they face, stating, “We are undergoing a process; we are getting certain aspects right while others are not going as planned. We are lacking in the final phase. It will take time, but we cannot afford to lower our standards. We have an exceptional squad, and we believe in them. These players have displayed remarkable professionalism to earn a hard-fought point against Odisha. We will not relent; we will fight in every match, and we are confident that with dedication and unity, this team will continue to grow and compete effectively in this league.”

Goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz added, “We are driven to improve every game, maintain focus on our strategy, and deliver a performance that showcases our character and determination. Following tactics and giving our best is imperative.”

As Kerala Blasters FC aims for a result that delights their passionate home crowd, Chennaiyin FC will focus on maintaining their shape and exploiting transitions. With three valuable points at stake, the Southern Derby promises to be an enthralling encounter.