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Two teams gunning for the coveted semi finals spot, face off against each other in Match 49 of the Hero Indian Super League. Both, Kerala Blasters and NorthEast United come into this fixture on the back of defeats. While, Kerala Blasters were defeated 1-0 against Chennaiyin FC, NorthEast United were hammered 3-0 by FC Goa. Both sides would be looking to dismantle their horrid form and grab all three points, which could cement their position in the semi-final spots.
Venue and Kick-off
Kerala’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is arguably the best stadium in the Super League and given that the Stadium had an attendance of 61,000 last time around, there can be little doubt. The stadium is once again set to attract audiences and stadium attendance is expected to reach around 50,000. The Blasters fans have been more than proactive in their quest to support the teams, and have lauded Kerala’s play with cheers and beats of drums.
Kick-off Time: 7PM IST
Probable Line Ups
Kerala Blasters (4-4-2): Sandip Nandy, Sandesh Jhigan, Gurwinder Singh, Cedric Hengbart, McAllister, Ishfaq Ahmed, Stephen Pearson, Romey, Avinabo Bag, Iain Hume, Andrew Barisic
With David James limping out of Kerala’s last fixture against Chennaiyin FC, veteran Indian goalkeeper Sandip Nandy is would be filling his gloves. The back four of Sandesh Jhigan, Gurwinder Singh, Cedric Hengbart and McAllister is set to start. Chennaiyin’s defense has been solid thus far, but showed little signs of complaceny in their fixture against Chennaiyin.
The midfield is set to constitute Stephen Pearson alongside Romey in the heart of the pitch. Ahmed Ishfaq and Avinabo Bag are expected to ply their trade on the wings. The attacking partnership of Iain Hume and Andre Barisic is again set to take to the field. Both Hume and Barisic, have developed a chemistry over time and the duo’s tireless running is often capitalized by Kerala.
NorthEast United (3-5-2): T.P Rehenesh, Aibor Khongjee, Massamba Lou Samba, Garcia, Kondwani Mtonga, Flipe, Adinga, Issac Chansa, Boithang Haokip, Durga Boro, Koke
Although NorthEast United have dominated matches and created chances in the Super League so far, finishing has been a major worry for the Highlanders. The John Abraham co-owned side lacks the finishing touch and have often failed to score goals – which has seen them fail to convert defeats to draws, and draws to wins.
Starting with a 3-5-2, Ricki Herbert is expected to add another level of attacking play to the Highlanders. The trio of Aibor Khongjee, Massamba and Garcia are expected to ply thier trade as the three center backs. Issac Chansa and Mtonga are expected to pull strings in the midfield. Koke is once again expected to start alongside a rejuvenated Durga Boro, and frustrate the opponents with his tactical brilliance and ability to play in between the lines.
Key Battles
Stephen Pearson vs Issac Chansa
The midfield clash between Pearson and Chansa will determine the balance of the Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United encounter. Stephen Pearson has constantly impressed , after moving to the middle of the park for Kerala and has often been the driving force that has dragged them forward. Issac Chansa, who is known for his ability to track players to perfection and nullify them, would hope to cancel Pearson’s influence on the game.
Iain Hume vs Massamba
Iain Hume has been one of the stand-out performers in the Sachin Tendulkar co-owned franchisee. His tireless running, combined with his ability to finish clinically, has beneffited Kerala a lot. Massamba has been in great form of late, as was seen against Chennaiyin FC, when he scored two goals. His ability to make the difference will see Hume’s work out going forward.
Predictions
Although NorthEast United are likely to dominate the proceedings and govern play, Kerala Blasters will look to be more clinical in-front of goal and hit the highlanders on the counter attack.
Kerala Blasters 2-0 NorthEast United FC
