Goa: Fresh from a staggering win against Bengaluru FC in their last game, Kerala Blasters FC are full of spirits to take on FC Goa in the Indian Super League at the GMC Stadium, Bambolim, on Saturday (January 23).
Kerala, currently ninth in the table, have settled down a bit, despite their early struggles showcasing good promises in their last few games while a 2-1 against Bengaluru have certainly boosted their confidence.
“We are competing in every match till the end. In the last three matches, we competed well. We played well and we got the points,” said Kerala head coach Kibu Vicuna in his pre-match conference. “We are happy that we are close (to the top four) but we are focusing on the next game.”
The Blasters were handed 3-1 defeat last time they faced the Gaurs back in December. However, the tables can be turned as Kerala are on a steady ship maintaining their consistency.
Having conceded more goals (21) than any other side,Kerala’s backline have to be aware of free-flowing attacking brand of football that Goa is known for and with great individual prowess in their ranks, they can hurt the Tuskers.
On the other hand, Goa will come into this match after a 1-1 draw against ATK Mohun Bagan in their last fixture. A formidable outfit playing a flamboyant style of football, Juan Ferrando’s side is equipped with a lot of gifted individuals like Igor Angulo and Jorge Ortiz who could turn the game on their own at any given point of the match. Currently, they are on a good track, standing third in the table improving their game steadily.
“We play as a team, we fight until the last minute. Each player has to fight. They know that they will not be in the squad if they don’t do that. You will win some or lose some, but fighting is the most important thing,” added head coach Juan Ferrando in his pre-match briefing.
“It will be a very difficult game (against the Blasters). They have been trying to play good football. They have different plans and are making the most of free spaces. They have a good squad,”
They have scored the most goals(13) from open play in this campaign showcasing how much threat they possess while going against the run of play. The likes of Brandon Fernandes and Alexander Jesuraj can also create pressure around the opposing half as a win of for the Gaurs can help them making one step further to secure a top-four place.
