Kochi is all set to host the Indian Super League finale on December 18.

"Kerala has been the bedrock of Indian football. It is one of the few states in the country where interest in football is unparallelled. I have always been intrigued by the pride and passion of the football fans in Kerala," a statement from Nita Ambani, Chairperson, Football Sports Development Limited, read.

"We felt that awarding the prestigious final of ISL 2016 to Kochi would be an apt ode to the State’s contribution to Indian football," the statement further read.

IMAGE: Chennaiyin FC celebrates after winning ISL 2 (Image used for representational purposes)

Photograph: PTI