ISL 2019-20: Predicting how the table could look after the league stage

Bengaluru FC vs ATK (22nd February 2020)

Can BFC make a late run for top spot?

The match at the Kanteerava could have huge implications on which side qualifies for the AFC Champions League next term. Despite the Blues not hitting their offensive straps in 2019-20, they still boast a healthy record at their fortress.

Additionally, apart from the fixture against Mumbai City FC, the defending champions haven’t conceded more than one goal in a single game. Thus, the encounter could morph into a tense and cagey affair, wherein both sides could cancel each other out, considering ATK are also not as gung-ho as some of the other outfits across the ISL.

Unsurprisingly, the contest could end deadlocked, although both sides might make the net bulge once.

Score Prediction: Bengaluru FC 1-1 ATK

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Odisha FC vs Kerala Blasters (23rd February 2020)

Kerala would hope to upset the apple cart

By the time Odisha’s final fixture rolls into town, they would have had their qualification hopes dashed, meaning that they might showcase just a touch of complacency, considering their season would’ve ended in disappointment.

The Blasters, on the other hand, would be hoping for one final splash before they embark into the 2019-20 ISL sunset. And, with Odisha FC already looking ahead to next season, the visitors could just pull off the unlikeliest of surprises at the Kalinga Stadium.

After all, Kerala seem to possess one great performance in them and it could come at the Juggernauts’ expense.

Score Prediction: Odisha FC 1-2 Kerala Blasters

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NorthEast United FC vs Chennaiyin FC (25th February 2020)

Can Edwin power Chennaiyin to victory against NorthEast United?

Similar to Odisha FC, Chennaiyin FC’s qualification aspirations would have been extinguished when they make the trip to Guwahati for their final fixture of the ISL campaign.

Unlike the Juggernauts though, the Marina Machans would be itching to prove their credentials and highlight that the run of four successive victories in January and early February wasn’t a flash in the pan.

Additionally, the players would want to make their places secure with stellar performances as Owen Coyle gears up for his first full season in charge.

Thus, there are plenty of sub-plots that could help the Marina Machans muster the requisite motivation to surge past NorthEast United, who incidentally, might begin a proper search for Robert Jarni’s successor only after the encounter.

Score Prediction: NorthEast United FC 0-2 Chennaiyin FC