Calcutta: The Mizoram versus Kerala semi-final clash in the Santosh Trophy on Friday is expected to be a good, interesting contest.

Kerala are the only unbeaten side so far in the competition, while Mizoram - who lost to Karnataka to finish second in their group - have shown a lot of exuberance.

There used to be a time when Kerala were a force to be reckoned with. But now Mizoram are creating waves in the Indian football scene, producing an array of talents.

In the group stage Kerala were unstoppable. The likes of Jithin Gopalan, Jithin MS, Rahul KP and Afdal VK played really well. Rahul, for the record, scored the match-winner against hosts Bengal.

Kerala use the flanks very well and much will depend on how the Mizoram defence handles that. Coach Lalsangzuala Hmar agreed that Kerala will be a different proposition.

"Yes, they are a very difficult team. We have to play really well if we want to be there in the final," Hmar said. Hmar did not sound too happy with the Mohun Bagan pitch where the semi-final would be played. That's understandable since Mizoram like to keep the ball on ground and play.

"The bumpy turf will affect our game. But we played here on Wednesday and will use that experience," he added.

Kerala coach Satheevan Nil Balan, on the other hand, did not have any complaint regarding the bumpy ground.