Sachin Tendulkar would have been pretty happy with his ISL team's performance, but not so much the result as the Kerala Blasters began life in the Indian Super League with a narrow 1-0 loss to NorthEast United FC.
The loud crowd at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Guwahati were treated to some nice football from both teams, with Koke making the difference for NorthEast United with a wonderful strike seconds before halftime.
"We wanted to give this crowd something to cheer about, and we are glad we did," said the former Malaga player to Star Sports after scoring the winner.
The Kerala Blasters had plenty of chances of their own, with the best one falling to Michael Chopra, but NorthEast United FC goalkeeper Alexandros Tzorvas could not be breached as the home team clung on for all three points.
Just prior to the match Tendulkar, who gave his Kerala Blasters team a rousing speech before the game, had said that the ISL will change the course of football in India.
"The ISL is a new beginning," Tendulkar was quoted as saying by PTI. "Everyone is looking for it. It had a fantastic start yesterday. The teams showed tremendous spirit and the crowd was very supportive.
"The Indian Super League is a big moment for Indian football. This initiative is going to change Indian football. I feel nice to be a part of it. I think the entire nation needs to be behind this."
Get the NorthEast United FC vs Kerala Blasters Full Match Highlights HERE.
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