Real Kashmir FC will play their season's first I-League home match against defending champions Chennai City FC on December 26, the first big sporting event in the valley since it became a union territory.
The abrogation of Article 370 and the ensuing lockdown in the valley had raised security concerns, but Real Kashmir have made elaborate arrangements since then, allaying the fears of the visiting teams.
"We are looking forward to hosting the defending champions in front of the home crowd. We have done our bit by tying all the loose ends and I am sure the match will be a treat to the football lovers in the valley," said RKFC vice-president Samarth Chattoo.
"I am sure that we expect a huge crowd as the people in the valley are very warm to receive guests," Samarth added.
This is the first match for which the newly formed UT administration are selling tickets.
Formed in 2016 after the massive floods in the state, Real Kashmir FC had managed to make the football community in the country sit up and take notice, winning the I-League 2nd Division in only its second year of existence and earning promotion to the top flight.
Then, continuing the dream run, they exceeded expectations by finishing third in their maiden season in top-flight.
Coach David Roberston's men will hope for another impressive season in the I-League.
TRAU FC earn maiden I-League point after 2-2 draw against Real Kashmir
Debutants Tiddim Road Athletic Union FC on Sunday earned their maiden I-League point after playing out a 2-2 draw against Real Kashmir FC at the Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal on Sunday.
Real Kashmir led 1-0 at half time but the home side fought back admirably well in the second half to split points with the Srinagar-based side.
Mason Robertson struck a brace for the visitors while Nigerians Emeka Princewill and Patrick Uche scored a goal apiece for the home side.
The results means Kashmir remain ninth on the table having bagged a couple of points from as many games while TRAU move up one place to tenth with one point from four matches.
Coromina's brace fires FC Goa to top of ISL standings
FC Goa blanked Odisha FC 3-0 to go on top of the Hero Indian Super League table at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao on Sunday.
Ferran Corominas (19', 89') scored a brace and another strike from Brandon Fernandes (85') was enough to seal the three points.
