New Delhi, Oct. 10 -- The Indian Super League (ISL) returns to its regular home and away format, with Bengaluru FC hosting Sporting Club Delhi at the Kanteerava Stadium on October 10 in the tournament opener of the 13th season. In the ISL 2026-27 season, a total of 163 matches will be played.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) on August 19 had announced that ISL 2026-27 will have 13 teams after Kolkata's Diamond Habour FC failed to complete its outstanding participation-fee payment. The ISL was played in a single leg format in the last season because of administrative delays.

Jamshedpur FC, who won the League Winners' Shield in the 2021-22 season, shut down their first team operations in August, and were replaced by Goan giants cl...