There is a great possibility for Kerala to have two teams playing in the Indian Super League (ISL) from next season. Kozhikode-based Gokulam Kerala could join Kerala Blasters in the top-flight of Indian men's football for the 2025-26 season.

But Gokulam, which plays in the I-League, the second division, have one small yet significant hurdle to cross to achieve their target - win one more match and hope their title rivals lose their last match of the ongoing season.

Since the 2023-24 season, I-League winners have gained promotion to the ISL. Punjab FC were the first club to reach the ISL, and Mohammedan SC gained promotion by winning the I-League last season.

i-league-table-penultimate-round
The top half of the I-League points table after the completion of the penultimate round .

After the completion of 21 of the 22 rounds in the I-League, Gokulam are placed second in the points table, trailing league leaders Churchill Brothers FC Goa by 2 points. Third-placed Real Kashmir have 36 points.

Though a fourth side, Inter Kashi, are on 36 points, and have a mathematical chance of finishing on maximum points, they will not be able to top the table due to inferior head-to-head record against both Churchill and Real Kashmir.

The exciting title race will be decided this week when the final round fixtures will be played out. Gokulam must beat Dempo SC Goa, whom they host at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode on April 4.

While a win will take Gokulam to the top of the table, their chance of clinching the I-League title depends on the exciting game between Real Kashmir and Churchill in Kashmir. If Real beat Churchill, Gokulam will be crowned champions and advance to the ISL.

Gokulam won back-to-back I-League titles before the Indian football roadmap, guaranteeing ISL promotion kicked in. Since then, Gokulam have finished second and third respectively, missing out on promotion. Gokulam will be hoping to get third-time lucky.

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