I-League: Gokulam Kerala aim top-three finish against Aizawl FC

The teams are placed third and seventh, respectively.

After three back to back games away from home, Gokulam Kerala are now back on their home turf in Kozhikode to host Aizawl FC in the I-League 2022-23 game at the EMS Stadium on Saturday, February 25, 2023. The kick-off slated for 4:30 pm IST.

The run of away games which began following a home defeat against RoundGlass Punjab, didn’t start well for Gokulam Kerala. Against Mohammedan Sporting, the Malabarians surrendered a one goal lead to eventually lose the game in the injury time However, following the loss, the defending champions came back to put in back to back winning performances. Against Rajasthan United in the Capital, Sergio Mendigutxia scored twice in the injury time to win it for Gokulam, while in Goa, a goal from Farshad Noor was enough to pocket three points.

Addressing the media at the pre-match press conference, Gokulam Kerala head coach Francesc Bonet said he wanted to win the next game for the fans “We are happy to be back here. We have come here with two away wins and now we have to show how strong we are at home. We want to win in front of our home fans.”

When asked whether Gokulam have any chance left to get back into the title race, Bonet said, “we are focused on winning our remaining matches, do our job and finish the season on a high note.”

Gokulam striker Jobby Justin agreed with his coach and added, “we have to win the remaining matches and get maximum points available. The Super Cup is there and we need to prepare for the tournament.”

For Gokulam Kerala’s opponents, Aizawl FC, things have been difficult lately. The People’s Club have lost three back to back games and talking about the recent results, Aizawl FC head coach Caetano Pinho said his side had been unlucky. “We have good, young and exciting players. However, we have been a little unlucky when it came to converting our chances.” Pinho also admitted the recent slumber has lowered the morale in the dressing room. “We started our campaign with confidence, but now some sense of doubts have creeped in the minds of the players. The team is feeling a little low but as usual, we will go for full points tomorrow.” Pinho added.

Tomorrow’s game will be Aizawl’s fourth in 13 days and Pinho feels it gives Gokulam Kerala an added advantage. “It will be a tough game for us. We have been playing games in quick succession. So, recovery for the players has been a real concern. On the other hand, Gokulam have had time to prepare. Also, they have a young and very innovative coach with a good squad at his disposal,” the Indian said.

The match between Gokulam Kerala and Aizawl FC will be teleast live on Eurosport and Doordarshan Sports and streamed live on the Discovery Plus OTT platform fron 4:30 pm IST.