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

Kerala Blasters will navigate this clash without their head coach Ivan Vukomanovic.

The Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium sets the stage for an anticipated clash between Punjab FC and Kerala Blasters FC in a highly anticipated Indian Super League (ISL) encounter. Punjab FC, currently positioned second-to-last in the league, is fervently seeking its first victory of the season.

The home advantage at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium presents an opportune moment for Punjab FC to secure a crucial win and climb the league ladder. On the other side, Kerala Blasters FC, standing second in the table, aims to reclaim its winning momentum after a recent setback against FC Goa. The absence of head coach Ivan Vukomanović, serving a one-match ban, adds an extra layer of challenge for the Blasters.

The Stakes

Punjab FC

Punjab FC, faces the challenge of converting draws into victories. With five points from nine games and a string of three consecutive draws, Punjab FC languishes as the second-last team in the league, still seeking their maiden win.

Optimistic about leveraging their home-ground advantage, Punjab FC aims to clinch their first victory. The team’s 16 goals conceded pose a significant challenge they hope to address with a stronger offensive display.

Kerala Blasters

Positioned second in the league, Kerala Blasters entered this clash with 17 points from 9 games, fueled by 5 wins. Despite a recent setback with a 1-0 loss against FC Goa, their resolve remains strong.

However, they face the game without their head coach, Ivan Vukomanović, who’s serving a one-match ban due to comments made against refereeing decisions in a previous match. The Blasters are eager to regain their winning momentum and secure a crucial victory.

Injury and Team News

Kerala Blasters will be without key players for this crucial encounter. Danish Farooq is suspended due to accumulating four yellow cards, while Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Aibanbha Dohling, and Freddy Lallawmawma are sidelined with injuries. There’s also uncertainty surrounding Adrián Luna’s availability due to a suspected fever. In contrast, Punjab FC enjoys a clean bill of health with no reported injuries, presenting a fully fit squad ready for action.

Head-to-Head

Total Matches- 1

Punjab FC win- 0

Kerala Blasters FC win- 1

Draw- 0

Predicted Lineups

Kerala Blasters (4-4-2)

Sachin Suresh (GK), Sandeep Singh, Pritam Kotal, Ruivah Hormipam, Naocha Huidrom Singh, Daisuke Sakai, Vibin Mohanan, Mohammed Azhar, Adrián Luna, Kwame Peprah, Dimitris Diamantakos.

Punjab FC (4-2-3-1)

Ravi Kumar (GK), Khaiminthang Lhungdim, Suresh Meitei, Dimitris Chatziisaias, Nitesh Darjee, Ashis Pradhan, Nikhil Prabhu, Prasanth K, Madih Talal, Juan Mera Gonzalez, Luka Majcen

Players to Watch

Luka Majcen

Luka Majcen, the Slovenian striker for Punjab FC, is eager to make his mark with 3 goals in 9 games. As the last year’s I-League Golden Boot winner and Player of the Season, Majcen is a potent force whenever he graces the pitch.

Dimitrios Diamantakos

Dimitrios Diamantakos, the prolific forward for Kerala Blasters, enters the match in excellent form, having scored 4 goals and provided 1 assist in 7 games. With 9 chances created, he poses a significant threat in front of goal, ranking as the second-highest goal-scorer of the season.

Did You Know

• Punjab FC is yet to secure a victory in the current ISL season.
• Kerala Blasters will navigate this clash without their head coach, suspended due to disciplinary actions.
• This encounter marks the first meeting between the two teams in Indian Super League history.

Telecast

The much-anticipated clash between Punjab FC and Kerala Blasters FC kicks off at 8 PM IST at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on December 14th. Fans can catch the live telecast on the Sports18 Network (Sports18 1/VH1 Channel). For those on the go, the JioCinema app provides live streaming, while international viewers can tune in via OneFootball for an exciting spectacle on the field.

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