ISL 2016: Chance for Both Kerala and Kolkata to Script History

Kochi: With a massive crowd behind them and a record five-match winning run at home to bank upon, Kerala Blasters will have reasons to believe they can topple Atletico de Kolkata and bag the Indian Super League football title in the summit cash on December 18.

Two years ago when the ISL was launched, Kerala Blasters lost to Atletico de Kolkata in the final in Mumbai by a solitary goal.

The loss was heart-breaking for Kerala and they will now be eager to settle scores as the two teams square up again in the final of this edition at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here.

"It's two years ago and we have only a couple of players who were part of that match. In fact we have one player who scored the winning goal (in that match)," said Kerala Blasters head coach Steve Coppell.

Since then, much has changed. Rafique is now with Kerala Blasters, incidentally scoring the winning penalty in the semi-final against Delhi Dynamos yesterday.

"A lot has changed. This is a totally different competition. A sense of revenge won't drive us. What will drive us on is the team spirit and the determination to win the final," said Coppell.

Kerala have a five-match winning run at their home stadium which has attracted massive crowd.

"We are playing against a very good team. A couple of former Kerala Blasters players like (Stephen) Pearson and (Iain) Hume are familiar with the environment. It's a great help to have all our supporters drive us on but there is no guarantee (of winning) apart from 90 minutes of full support. The effect that will have on the result of the game can only be determined at the end. There is no way we are the favourites," said Coppell.

Kerala's opponents will be equally determined to put it across the home side and become only the first team to win the competition twice in three years. ATK are the only side to qualify for play-offs for three successive years and another title will be an added feather to their cap.

While cricket united the two sporting legends, the ISL final on Sunday will see them 'divided' as they try to inspire their respective teams to glory.