An interesting clash is on the cards in the ISL as Kerala Blasters FC are set to face FC Goa on Saturday. The match will take place at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim.
Kerala Blasters FC Preview
Kerala Blasters FC come into the clash on the back of a three-game unbeaten run. The Tuskers have clinched impressive victories over Jamshedpur FC and Bengaluru FC in their recent encounters.
Head coach Kibu Vicuna has handed opportunities to several youngsters such as Denechandra Meitei, Rahul KP, Jeakson Singh and Lalthathanga Khawlhring. The young Indian players have made good use of the chances and managed to make a significant impact in the ongoing edition of the ISL.
Overseas players like Vicente Gomez, Juande Lopez, Facundo Pereyra, and Jordan Murray are crucial for Kerala Blasters' chances for the remainder of the season.
FC Goa Preview
FC Goa, who are currently third in the ISL table with 19 points from 12 games, are in the midst of a five-game unbeaten run in the league.
Head coach Juan Ferrando has stuck to his possession-based style, which makes for an attacking brand of football. FC Goa rely heavily on Igor Angulo and Jorge Ortiz Mendoza for goals, with the former currently leading the goalscoring charts.
FC Goa's midfielders have been a key reason behind their early success, with the likes of Brandon Fernandes, Edu Bedia and Alberto Noguera being in top form.
Kerala Blasters FC vs FC Goa Preview
The two teams have played each other 13 times in the ISL so far . FC Goa have a far better head-to-head record, with nine wins over the Kerala Blasters. The Tuskers have managed to beat the Gaurs three times, while one encounter ended in a draw.
Kibu Vicuna's team have been in good form going while attacking of late, with Jordan Murray and Rahul KP scoring some crucial goals. Australian forward Murray has taken up the mantle of leading the line for the Blasters upfront.
On the other hand, FC Goa have a plethora of stars such as Edu Bedia, Brandon Fernandes, Igor Angulo, and Jorge Ortiz Mendoza in their midfield. Angulo and Mendoza are especially the two most important players for the Gaurs, with the duo nettng 14 goals between them this season.
Considering their recent form, FC Goa are slight favourites to win Saturday's fixture. However, Kerala Blasters FC can't be counted out.
Prediction: Kerala Blasters FC 1 - 2 FC Goa