The stage is set for a thrilling encounter in the Durand Cup quarterfinals as undefeated Bengaluru FC lock horns with Kerala Blasters at the Salt Lake Stadium on Friday. This clash promises to be a high-stakes affair, with both teams vying for a coveted semifinal berth.
Bengaluru FC, having secured their place in the final eight with impressive wins over Inter Kashi, Mohammedan Sporting, and Indian Navy FT, will be looking to maintain their winning momentum. Their Group B dominance has been marked by their potent attack, led by summer signing Jorge Pereyra Diaz, who has already notched three goals in three appearances.
Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters arrive in Kolkata brimming with confidence after their resounding victories over Mumbai City and CISF Protectors. Their attacking duo, Noah Sadaoui and Kwame Peprah, has been a force to be reckoned with, combining for a staggering 10 goals in the tournament thus far.
The rivalry between these two clubs adds an extra layer of intensity to this match. As Bengaluru FC coach Gerard Zaragoza aptly pointed out, “Everyone knows that Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters share a great rivalry, and that’s good for Indian football.”
Kick-off for this highly anticipated quarterfinal is scheduled for 7 PM at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. The match will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network and streamed live on Sony LIV. Football enthusiasts across the nation will be glued to their screens as these two giants of Indian football fight for a place in the Durand Cup semifinals.