The clash between Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC, often dubbed the “South Indian Derby,” is one of the fiercest rivalries in Indian football. Unlike many other rivalries, however, this one wasn’t forged on the pitch in the heat of competition. Instead, it simmered before the two teams even met, fueled by passionate fan bases and a unique set of circumstances.
The Story of Kerala Blasters vs Bengaluru FC Rivalry.
Seeds of Discontent:
The story begins in 2017 when Bengaluru FC, a rising force in Indian football, was not yet part of the Indian Super League (ISL). Two key players, Vineeth and Rino Anto, who were immensely popular among Bengaluru’s passionate fan group, the West Block Blues, were signed by Kerala Blasters.
This move sent shockwaves through the Bengaluru fanbase. While many understood the professional aspect of player transfers, losing two beloved players to a rival club, especially one with a strong fan base like Kerala Blasters’ Manjappada, ignited a spark of animosity.
When Bengaluru played at home against the North Korean side on April 25 SC in the first leg of the AFC Cup Inter-Zone in August 2017, both Vineeth and Anto were present at Kanteerava to witness the game.
Even though the majority of West Block Blues began singing their specialized chants for Vineeth and Rino Anto, acknowledging their presence and their contributions to the club, several supporters among the group also started abusive chanting against the Kerala Blasters.
Online Battles and Media Hype:
Later, tension between the groups began when Rino Anto expressed his displeasure over the incident on social media. The rivalry intensified when the groups started going against each other, posting banter on social media.
Social media became a battlefield for the two fan bases. While the banter was initially lighthearted, it soon turned into targeted chants and online animosity. The media, sensing a brewing rivalry, played its part, constantly drawing parallels and highlighting the “David vs. Goliath” narrative, with Kerala Blasters seen as the established giant and Bengaluru FC as the ambitious challenger.
The First Encounter:
Finally, on December 31st, 2017, the two teams met for the first time in an ISL match. The Kochi stadium was electric, with both fan bases creating a vibrant atmosphere. The game itself was tense and close, mirroring the simmering emotions off the pitch. Bengaluru FC emerged victorious 3-1, adding fuel to the fire and solidifying the rivalry.
More than Just Football:
The rivalry goes beyond just on-field competition. Both teams represent distinct cultural identities within South India. Kerala Blasters, with their passionate yellow army, represent the state’s rich footballing tradition. Bengaluru FC, backed by the vibrant West Block Blues, embodies the city’s cosmopolitan spirit and rising footballing ambition.
This cultural undercurrent adds another dimension to the rivalry, making it more than just a clash between two teams. It becomes a battle for regional pride and footballing supremacy in South India.
The Rivalry Evolves:
Over the years, the rivalry has matured. While the passion remains, there has been a shift towards respect and healthy competition. Both teams have had their share of victories and heartbreaks, further solidifying the narrative of a closely contested rivalry.
However, this took a drastic change in the 2022/23 ISL Knockout stages. Bengaluru and Kerala Blasters met against each other in the knockout stage match on 3 March 2023. The Blasters players forfeited the knockout match in the extra time following the controversy around the legitimacy of the free-kick goal scored by the Bengaluru captain Sunil Chhetri in the 96th minute.
The Blasters players and staff argued that the free-kick was taken before the Blasters players set themselves in their defensive positions. The referee gave Sunil Chhetri’s goal the green light, and the infuriated Blasters coach Ivan Vukomanović called off his players from the pitch into the dressing room.
Following the discussion with the match commissioner, the referee blew the final whistle, and Bengaluru was awarded the win. This match was met with immense criticism from fans and pundits, and added to tensions between both clubs.
A Testament to Indian Football:
The Kerala Blasters vs Bengaluru FC rivalry is a unique phenomenon in Indian football. It shows that passionate fan bases and compelling narratives can create intense rivalries, even before the teams meet on the pitch. It serves as a testament to the growing popularity of the sport in India and the passionate connection fans have with their clubs.
Such is the passion among both the supporters that derby days are no less than festivals, the preparations began weeks before the match to create a hostile atmosphere for the opposition.
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The Southern Derby has seen some of the greatest tifos in Indian Football and the atmosphere inside the stadium during the match is palpable.
Looking Forward:
The future of the rivalry promises to be exciting. Both teams are constantly striving for success, and their clashes remain some of the most anticipated fixtures in the Indian football calendar. As the sport continues to develop in India, this South Indian Derby is sure to remain a cornerstone of fan engagement and a symbol of the growing passion for football in the country.
Conclusion
The Kerala Blasters vs Bengaluru FC rivalry, unlike others, ignited before the teams even met. Fueled by passionate fan bases and unique circumstances, it quickly transcended the pitch. Cultural pride and regional identity became intertwined with the rivalry, creating a captivating “South Indian Derby.”
Recent controversies have added complexity, but the future promises continued excitement, driven by unwavering support and the relentless pursuit of victory by both clubs.
As Indian football flourishes, this rivalry will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of fan engagement and a testament to the nation’s growing passion for the beautiful game.
