WEDNESDAY, JULY 03, 2024
Team Herald
Goa: Kerala Blasters FC will host NorthEast United FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi to cap off the double header on October 21, Saturday. The Blasters have had two victories along with a loss in their three games until now. The Highlanders have bagged four points on the back of a win, defeat, and a draw each. A possible goal-fest is on the cards given that the two teams have shown some impressive attacking prowess so far this season.
What’s at stake?
Kerala Blasters FC
Kerala has fared well courtesy of Adrian Luna, with the Uruguayan starring in their triumphs in the opening couple of fixtures. They gave the Islanders a good run for their money at the Mumbai Football Arena (MFA) and will start this match on the front foot riding on the support of their home crowd.
NorthEast United FC
NorthEast United FC drew their previous game against Punjab FC but they have shown greater promise and potential under the tutelage of Juan Pedro Benali in this campaign. The key is to not surrender that momentum after the international break and instead capitalise on that in this difficult away match.
Key Players
Danish Farooq (Kerala Blasters FC)
The 27-year-old player scored against Mumbai City FC and has shown a tendency to get into goal-scoring positions by playing from an advanced midfield position. Whether he pounces upon those chances more consistently will be keenly watched in the coming games.
Parthib Gogoi (NorthEast United FC)
Parthib Gogoi has been the star of the season for the Highlanders, scoring in all three of their matches. The attacker has signed a contract extension with the club and he will be striving to sustain the positive form he developed before the international break.
