Hero I-League- Initial Review and Thoughts
The Hero I-League season for 2017 has started promisingly. The introduction of two new teams Minerva Punjab and Chennai City FC have also added a much needed boost to India’s top football league.
Bengaluru Favorites For The Title
Bengaluru City FC are a class above other I-League teams. The Blues appeared in last year’s AFC tournament final and look clear favorites to walk away with the title. Bengaluru have convincingly won all their games thus far with a team that are well organized and cohesive. Captain Sunil Chhetri has not hit top form yet but the talent in the squad is such that this has not been an issue.
Sena Ralte and Eugeneson Lyngdoh have been fantastic for Albert Roca’s side till now. CK Vineeth, the forward from Kerala is another Indian player who has made a huge impact for Bengaluru FC. It’s great that BFC are giving such a great emphasis to Indian talent rather than import foreign talent. The title is definitely BFC’s to lose.
Having said that, BFC also need to ensure that they are not complacent. A loss to East Bengal illustrates that they may not have it their own way. It’s said that the best teams grind out results even when not at their best. This is something BFC need to identify as well.
Newcomers Find It Hard Going
Chennai City FC and Minerva Punjab are the latest entrants to the I-League and predictably have had a hard time adapting. Both are yet to win a game and are still finding their feet in the league. This however should not be a cause for worry to both clubs. Considering the short preparation time both teams have had, CCFC and Minerva should look to upcoming games to build momentum and cement their place in the league.
Both coaches are still trying and testing available players to figure out their best team, decide on appropriate tactics and finalizing the plans for the squad. It definitely won’t be long before both the newcomers start picking up points.
Mohun Bagan- Can they challenge?
Mohun Bagan are India’s oldest football club. They also seem to be the only club who can currently compete with Bengaluru FC for the title. The Kolkata club beat Chennai City 2-1 away from home and outlined their credentials by winning even when not at their best. Sony Norde is the man leading the line for Mohun Bagan and they need the Haitian to be at his best throughout the season. Sanjoy Sen’s men have started the season well and will need to achieve consistency to fight for the title.
East Bengal Could Surprise a Few
East Bengal showed with a win over Bengaluru that they could be the dark horses for the trophy. Robin Singh’s late goal meant that East Bengal sit on second behind fierce rivals Mohun Bagan. Another strength that the Kolkata team have is an immense home support. The intense crowd in Barasat was a 12th man for East Bengal which pushed them over the line against the league favorites. At least at home, EBFC are an extremely strong team that have to be respected. Whether they can challenge for an elusive leage title remains to be seen..
The I-League season has started as expected with Bengaluru FC and Mohun Bagan dominating the fray. The quality has improved greatly compared to recent seasons and an increasing fanbase has also meant larger crowds and more support. India’s top football division is progressing slowly yet steadily.