The Southern rivalry in the Indian Super League (ISL) takes centre stage as table-toppers Bengaluru FC prepare to visit arch-rivals Kerala Blasters FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, on October 25, at 7:30 PM IST. Bengaluru FC are currently a happy side sitting comfortably at the pole position. On the other hand, Kerala Blasters FC, who have lost points on the road, will be eager to hand the Blues their first defeat of the season.

Consecutive clean-sheets: Bengaluru FC are the only side who are yet to concede a goal in this ISL edition. They have kept a clean-sheet in their last five games, which is the joint-longest such run by a club in this league. On the contrary, when it comes to Kochi, Gerard Zaragoza’s side have never kept a clean-sheet in five ISL games, losing the last three at this very venue.

Best shot conversion: Bengaluru FC have attempted the least shots per game (11) in the ongoing season. But, as per Matchweek 5, they have the best shot conversion rate (14.6%). It shows that they are being lethal in the opportunities that they take, adding an extra layer of ruthlessness to their offensive effectiveness.

“We want to play with intensity”

Kerala Blasters FC head coach Mikael Stahre explained that his team is following a set routine that they wish to replicate across every game. But at the same time, they make changes to their plans as per the strength of the opposition too.

“We want to play a fast game with a lot of confidence. We want to be very competitive and then for every match there are different game plans that we have. So about 80% of our strategy is the philosophy we follow and 20% is the adjustments we make for every game,” Stahre said.

“Naorem Roshan Singh has a lot of confidence”

Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza has laid the focus on the 25-year-old Naorem Roshan Singh, who has been exceptional for the team on both ends of the field this season. His four interceptions have been accompanied with nine tackles along with one goal, reflecting his utility in defence and attack.

“He (Naorem Roshan Singh) is improving in defence. It is too difficult to attack Roshan. In one-on-one situations, he is very good. Now, he is playing for the national team. He has a lot of confidence, and we are working with him to arrive more (often in the box) because he's helping us as a winger,” the coach said.