As Kerala Blasters prepare to host Bengaluru FC in the iconic Southern Derby, emotions run high on both sides.
With a rich history of fierce encounters, this match promises to be another thrilling chapter in Indian football’s storied rivalries.
Both teams come into the game with something to prove, and the stakes are as high as ever.
In the pre-match press conference ahead of the highly anticipated clash, Mikael Stahre, the head coach of Kerala Blasters, Adrián Luna, the Kerala Blasters captain; Gerard Zaragoza, the Bengaluru FC coach; and Aleksandar Jovanovic, the Bengaluru FC defender spoke to the media.
News from the Blasters camp:
Mikael Stahre opened the presser by reflecting on Kerala Blasters’ recent 2-1 victory over Mohammedan Sporting, praising his team’s resilience and emphasizing the importance of building momentum. “It was a really important win, especially away from home,” said Stahre. “We had to adapt tactically, but the team showed great spirit, and the substitutions made a big impact. Tomorrow, however, is a different game.”
The coach stressed the significance of tomorrow’s clash against Bengaluru FC, who currently sit atop the table.
“They haven’t conceded a goal yet, which shows their strength. But we’re playing at home, with a full stadium behind us, and we’re fully prepared. This is a must-win for us,” said Stahre.
Adrián Luna, who recently completed a full 90 minutes after returning from injury, echoed his coach’s sentiments. “It’s a special game for everyone, not just the players but the fans and the club. We know what this rivalry means, and we’re ready to fight for the win. It’s crucial for us to stay in the race for the top spots.”
When asked about the team’s tactical approach, Stahre remained tight-lipped, stating with a smile, “I can’t tell you our tactics, I’m ugly, but I’m not stupid!” He did, however, acknowledge that some adjustments will be made while emphasizing that 80% of their game plan remains rooted in the team’s core principles—playing fast, compact, and with high intensity.
The conversation then shifted to the team’s unity and depth, particularly highlighting the importance of both the starting XI and the substitutes. Stahre underlined the crucial role of the entire squad, saying, “The starting lineup and the ending lineup are equally important. It’s all about maintaining energy, and I expect everyone to be ready to contribute.”
Luna was also quick to deflect individual praise when asked about his chemistry with Jesús Jiménez and Noah Sadaoui, pointing out that football is a team game. “It’s not just about us three. Everyone on this team is fighting for the same goal, and that’s what makes us strong.”
With both teams eager to claim bragging rights in the Southern Derby, Stahre wrapped up the session by reiterating his faith in the squad’s progress. “We’ve been getting better with each game, and tomorrow will be no different. It’s going to be a tough match, but we’re ready.”
Kerala Blasters, with their fans in full voice, will be looking to knock Bengaluru FC off their perch and close the gap at the top of the table. As the atmosphere in Kochi builds, the stage is set for what could be one of the most electric encounters of the season.
Bengaluru FC’s Optimism:
Bengaluru FC, buoyed by their strong start to the season, enter the match with a clear goal in mind—securing their first away win.
In a pre-match press conference, Bengaluru FC’s coach shared his satisfaction with the team’s performance so far.
“We are happy with how we’ve started… We are ready to go there, to fight for the three points and bring home the first away win of the season,” he remarked, setting a confident tone for the match.
This drive is fueled not just by their recent successes, but also by a hunger to break the jinx of failing to win in Kochi in the past two seasons.
While the match against Kerala Blasters holds significance for its competitive rivalry, the Bengaluru camp views it as “just another game.”
The coach stressed, “Probably, no. It’s a new game for us, nothing special. We are going to face a good team, in a good stadium with great supporters, and we are in a good mood.”
During the press conference, Aleksandar Jovanovic emphasized the team’s improved understanding of their roles, saying, ‘I think now if you ask any player in the team, you know what to do in the game, you’ll know exactly what the coach wants him to say. So I think once everyone has a clear understanding, it just makes the team adapt and play more as a team.’
The team appears to be focused on their own strengths rather than getting caught up in the emotions of a heated rivalry.