The Hero ‘Indian Super League’ popularly known as the ISL kicked off in Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata a week ago. Unlike most other major leagues around the world which have seasons lasting 8-10 months each, this league only comprises of a two month long season. Also, there are no tiers for a promotion or relegation system. The aim of this league is to promote football in India, encourage its development at the grassroots and help India improve its FIFA ranking which is currently below 150. This much awaited league has enthralled numerous Indian football supporters as it will give them the opportunity to witness many greats of the game such as Alessandro Del Piero, Robert Pires and Fredrik Ljungburg playing right in front of their eyes.
The ISL has gained approval internationally. In the words of EPL club Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, “I know that the people in India watch the premier league and I’m convinced that with such a huge population the ISL will take off.”
The ISL has gained approval internationally. In the words of EPL club Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, “I know that the people in India watch the premier league and I’m convinced that with such a huge population the ISL will take off.”
The league which has a very catchy theme song. Its advertisements and promotions are laden with promises.
Luckily, It is safe to say after two rounds of matches that the league is a big hit among the fans and is not like some of the other leagues in India (PHL, WSH) that just vanished due to lack of interest in the first season.
The league table’s top 4 after the first week has ‘Atletico de Kolkata’ in 1st place with 7 pts., ‘North East United’ in 2nd place, ‘Mumbai City FC’ in 3rd place and ‘Chennaiyin FC’ in 4th place.
A FEW HIGHLIGHTS
First goal: Fikru Terefa of Atletico de Kolkata
First Hattrick: Andre Moritz of Mumbai City FC
First clean sheet: Subhasiash Roy Chowdhury of Atletico de Kolkata
First Yellow card: Syed Nabi of Mumbai City FC
First Red Card: Borja Fernandez of Atletico de Kolkata
- Reubyn Coutinho
Luckily, It is safe to say after two rounds of matches that the league is a big hit among the fans and is not like some of the other leagues in India (PHL, WSH) that just vanished due to lack of interest in the first season.
The league table’s top 4 after the first week has ‘Atletico de Kolkata’ in 1st place with 7 pts., ‘North East United’ in 2nd place, ‘Mumbai City FC’ in 3rd place and ‘Chennaiyin FC’ in 4th place.
A FEW HIGHLIGHTS
First goal: Fikru Terefa of Atletico de Kolkata
First Hattrick: Andre Moritz of Mumbai City FC
First clean sheet: Subhasiash Roy Chowdhury of Atletico de Kolkata
First Yellow card: Syed Nabi of Mumbai City FC
First Red Card: Borja Fernandez of Atletico de Kolkata
- Reubyn Coutinho