ISL 2026–27 Schedule: Phase 1 Fixtures Announced Ahead of October 10 Start

The Indian Super League (ISL) is set to ignite passion across the nation with the release of its Phase 1 fixtures for the 2026-27 season. Kicking off on Saturday, October 10, 2026, the league promises a revamped fan experience, with a significant emphasis on weekend matches and the return to the traditional home-and-away format. Phase 1 of the competition will run until January 17, 2027, featuring 78 exhilarating encounters.  ISL 2026-27: Indian Super League Season 13 Kicks Off on October 10 as Home-and-Away Format Returns.

ISL 2026-27 To Start October 10

The #ISL13 fixtures are officially here! 🥁 🥳#ISLFam, it’s time to pick your dates, clear your calendars, and lock in. 🗓️🔒 pic.twitter.com/Uwgg15yIwE

— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) September 26, 2026

Weekend Football Extravaganza

Responding directly to fan feedback, the ISL organisers have strategically scheduled 53 of the 78 Phase 1 matches—a remarkable 68%—on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays. This move aims to provide greater accessibility and an enhanced viewing experience for supporters across India, with matches primarily kicking off at 5:00 PM IST and 7:30 PM IST.

Opening Day Delivers Double Delight

Football aficionados can mark their calendars for a thrilling opening day double-header on October 10. Bengaluru FC will host Sporting Club Delhi at the iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru to commence the season at 5:00 PM IST. Later the same day, FC Goa will clash with Chennaiyin FC at the Fatorda Stadium in Goa, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 PM IST.

Key Fixtures and Milestones

Defending champions East Bengal FC, who clinched their maiden ISL title last season, will begin their campaign slightly later due to AFC commitments. Their title defence commences on Sunday, October 18, against Churchill Brothers at the Fatorda Stadium at 5:00 PM IST.

The highly anticipated Kolkata Derby, one of Asian football's most electrifying rivalries, will see East Bengal FC take on Mohun Bagan Super Giant on Sunday, November 29, 2026, at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, starting at 7:30 PM IST.

The 2026-27 season also introduces new historical moments. The first-ever ISL Goa Derby will unfold on December 13, 2026, when Churchill Brothers face FC Goa at the Fatorda Stadium. Furthermore, the league expands its geographical footprint with Manipur set to host its inaugural ISL match on November 24, 2026, as NorthEast United FC battle Sporting Club Delhi at the Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal. Jamshedpur FC Sold to Churchill Brothers for INR 100 by Tata Steel.

Participating Teams and League Structure

This season will feature 13 dynamic clubs competing for the coveted ISL title: Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, Churchill Brothers, East Bengal FC, FC Goa, Inter Kashi, Kerala Blasters FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Mumbai City FC, NorthEast United FC, Odisha FC, Punjab FC, and Sporting Club Delhi. The league will observe a FIFA international break from November 7 to November 20. The 2026-27 campaign marks a return to the full home-and-away format after recent structural changes.

The announcement of the Phase 1 fixtures sets the stage for what promises to be an engaging and action-packed ISL season, reaffirming the league's commitment to delivering top-tier football entertainment for its growing fanbase.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 26, 2026 01:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).