ISL 2023-24: Kerala Blasters vs Mumbai City FC | Preview, Predicted lineup, injury news, H2H, telecast details

Mumbai City FC have a greater head-to-head record over Kerala Blasters in the ISL.

A captivating showdown is on the horizon in the Indian Super League (ISL) as Mumbai City FC prepare to go head-to-head with Kerala Blasters FC in a highly awaited clash. Positioned at fourth and second place in the league standings respectively, both squads promise a thrilling spectacle on the field.

In their previous encounter, Mumbai City FC emerged victorious, clinching a vital three points on their home turf. However, the dynamics may shift this time around, presenting Kerala Blasters with an opportunity for redemption. Mumbai City FC confront a formidable hurdle, missing key players due to red card incidents in their recent match against Mohun Bagan, injecting an additional layer of suspense to the upcoming battle.

The Stakes

Kerala Blasters FC

Placed at the second spot on the ISL table, Kerala Blasters are riding high on recent success, securing a 1-0 victory over Punjab FC. The team’s triumph adds to their confidence as they gear up to face Mumbai City FC. 

Importantly, the passionate backing of their fanbase becomes a crucial factor as it could potentially tip the scales in their favour. With the energy and fervour from their supporters, Kerala Blasters are poised to leverage this advantage in the upcoming clash against Mumbai City FC, creating an atmosphere that might play a pivotal role in their pursuit of victory.

Mumbai City FC

Buoyed by a resounding comeback victory against Mohun Bagan, Mumbai City FC are riding on a wave of high morale and motivation. However, this triumph has come at a cost, with the team losing key players such as Akash Mishra, Greg Stewart, Vikram Partap Singh and Rahul Bheke in a fierce battle against the Mariners. 

Despite the setbacks, Mumbai City FC now face the challenge of regrouping and maintaining their winning momentum in the upcoming fixtures, especially against Kerala Blasters FC, navigating through the absence of these influential players on the field against a widely supported football club.

Injury & Team News

Kerala Blasters face a significant challenge in the upcoming clash, grappling with the absence of key players. The suspension of Danish Farooq, having accumulated four yellow cards, leaves a void in the team’s lineup. Furthermore, injuries sideline impactful players like Jeakson Singh, Aibanbha Dohling, and Freddy Lallawmawma. Adding to the misery, Adrián Luna is out for a long-term injury.

Mumbai City FC will be without key players such as Greg Stewart, Akash Mishra, Vikram Partap Singh, and their captain Rahul Bheke, as all of them received red cards against Mohun Bagan.

Head-to-Head

Total Matches – 19

Mumbai City FC win – 9

Kerala Blasters FC win – 4

Draw – 6

Predicted Lineups

Kerala Blasters (4-4-2)

Sachin Suresh (GK), Sandeep Singh, Pritam Kotal, Ruivah Hormipam, Naocha Singh, Daisuke Sakai, Vibin Mohanan, Mohammed Azhar, Mohammed Aimen, Kwame Peprah, Dimitrios Diamantakos.

Mumbai City FC (4-2-3-1)

Phurba Lachenpa (GK), Sanjeev Stalin, Rostyn Griffiths, Mehtab Singh, Valpuia, Apuia, Yoëll van Nieff, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Jayesh Rane, Bipin Singh, Jorge Pereyra Diaz

Players to Watch

Dimitrios Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters FC)

Kerala Blasters’ dynamic forward, Dimitrios Diamantakos, arrives for the upcoming match in stellar form, netting five goals and offering one assist in just eight games. His impact extends beyond scoring, as evidenced by creating nine chances, solidifying his status as the second-highest goal-scorer of the season. 

Diamantakos emerges as a potent offensive force, presenting a substantial threat in front of the goal. With an impressive blend of scoring proficiency and playmaking abilities, he becomes a pivotal asset for Kerala Blasters, aiming to maintain their momentum in the season with his consistent and impactful contributions.

Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)

Predominantly deployed in the second half, his electrifying pace consistently wreaks havoc among opposing players. The anticipation of his explosive speed and skill set introduces an additional layer of excitement to the impending clash, ensuring a thrilling confrontation between his attacking prowess and the defensive resilience of the Kerala Blasters side. 

This dynamic presence injects a palpable element of unpredictability, setting the stage for an exhilarating battle that is sure to captivate fans and intensify the competitive vigour of the match.

Did you know?

• Jorge Pereyra Diaz is currently the top scorer in the ISL 2023-24 campaign while Dimitrios Diamantakos holds the second spot.
• Last time the two teams faced each other earlier this season, it was the Islanders who clinched the victory.
• The last meeting between these two sides saw Yoell van Nieff and Milos Drincic serve long-term suspensions.

Telecast

The Mumbai City FC vs Kerala Blasters game kicks off at 8 PM IST, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi on December 24, 2023. Live telecast of the fixture will be available on the Sports18 Network (Sports18 1/VH1 channel). Live streaming of the game will be available on the JioCinema app. Viewers from abroad can use OneFootball to stream the game.

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