ISL 2025-26: Kerala Blasters FC aim to recover from setback as Mumbai City FC visit Kochi

Mumbai City FC clinched three points in their first game of the ISL season

The JLN Stadium in Kochi will host its first Indian Super League 2025-26 (ISL) match on Sunday as Kerala Blasters FC are all set to welcome Mumbai City FC in a thrilling encounter.

Meetings between the two teams in past seasons have rarely disappointed, delivering intense, end-to-end contests filled with red cards, late twists, and big margin scorelines.

Both sides head into the clash with several new faces in their squads. Kerala Blasters will be eager to secure their first win of the season in front of their loyal home fans, while Mumbai City FC aim to build on their positive momentum and target another crucial victory.

The Stakes

Kerala Blasters FC

Kerala Blasters FC currently sit in the bottom half of the standings after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Mohun Bagan SG in their season opener.

The Blasters now return to Kochi after a long wait, where a massive and passionate home crowd is expected to turn up in support.

With several new faces in the squad, Kerala will be eager to secure their first points of the campaign and kickstart their season in front of their loyal fans.

Given the shorter format this year, every match carries added significance, making this clash almost a must-win as they look to build early momentum.

Mumbai City FC

Mumbai City FC will look to build on their positive momentum after winning their season opener against Chennaiyin FC.

Currently sitting at midtable in the league, the Islanders will aim to make the most of this away fixture as they seek to strengthen their position early in the campaign.

With fewer home games this season, Mumbai are expected to place greater emphasis on their performances on the road, making this encounter a crucial opportunity to continue building consistency away from home.

Injury Concerns and Team News

For Kerala Blasters FC, head coach David Catala is expected to have a fully fit squad to choose from, giving him plenty of options ahead of this crucial home fixture.

However, there could be concerns for Peter Kratky and Mumbai City FC as Jore Ortiz suffered an injury scare in their previous outing and had to be stretchered off in the second half, casting doubt over his availability for this clash.

Head-to-Head Record

Overall Head-to-Head Record between the two clubs stand as follows

• Matches played: 23
• Won by Kerala Blasters FC: 6
• Won by Mumbai City FC: 11
• Games that ended in a draw: 6

Predicted Lineups

Kerala Blasters FC (4-3-3)

Sachin (GK), Saheef, Ba, Bikash, Aiban, Borges, Ebindas, Danish, Nihal, Bertomeu, Korou

Mumbai City FC (4-2-3-1)

Lachenpa (GK), Mishra, Sahil, Nuno, Valpuia, Brandon, Tluanga, Kauko, Chhangte, Vikram Pratap, Pereyra Diaz

Players to Watchout

Danish Farooq (Kerala Blasters FC)

Danish Farooq looked strong and composed in midfield for the Blasters in their last outing. Despite the defeat, he stood out with his physical presence, work rate and ability to win back possession, providing much-needed stability in the Centre of the park.

He could play an important role in the upcoming clash against Mumbai City FC, particularly by disrupting the opposition’s midfield rhythm and breaking up play at crucial moments.

Joni Kauko (Mumbai City FC)

Joni Kauko marked his return to the Indian Super League with an impressive performance, making an immediate impact in Mumbai’s midfield. He dictated the tempo, won key duels and completely outclassed Chennaiyin FC in the Centre of the park, looking sharp and composed throughout the contest.

With Kerala Blasters FC set to face Mumbai City FC, the battle in midfield is likely to decide the outcome. If Kauko continues in the same vein, his presence could prove decisive, as the team that controls the middle of the pitch will likely come out on top.

Did You Know?

• The biggest win between these two sides came when Mumbai City FC defeated Kerala Blasters with a scoreline of 6-1 on 16 December 2018.
• Kerala Blasters FC won the last outing between these two sides with a scoreline of 1-0.

Telecast Details

The Kerala Blasters FC vs Mumbai City FC match will be played at the JLN Stadium Kochi on Sunday (22nd February 2026). The game will kick-off at 7:30 pm IST.

With respect to the TV telecast, the match will be shown live on the Sony Ten Network. It will also be streamed online on FanCode App.

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