Kalinga Super Cup 2024: Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United: Preview, Predicted lineup, injury news, H2H, telecast details

Both Kerala Blasters and NorthEast United will aim to end their Kalinga Super Cup campaign on a high.

As the Kalinga Super Cup 2024 reaches its climax, two teams, Kerala Blasters and NorthEast United, find themselves in a situation where their journey in the tournament has come to an end, but the desire to finish on a high note prevails. Facing off at the Kalinga Stadium, both teams aim to secure the send position in the table, despite being officially eliminated from the competition.

The Stakes

Kerala Blasters

Sitting at the second position with four points, Kerala Blasters suffered a setback in their last match against Jamshedpur FC, extinguishing their chances of progressing further. While they dominate the Indian Super League (ISL) table, the Super Cup has posed challenges. The Blasters view this tournament as a learning experience to rectify mistakes before returning to the ISL.

NorthEast United FC

With third points and a lone victory in the group stage, NorthEast United have failed to cut the next round. Currently placed sixth in the ISL, they see the Super Cup as a platform for gaining valuable experience and translating it into an improved performance in the ISL.

Injury & Team News

Kerala Blasters face fitness concerns with Kwame Peprah unlikely to feature, along with other absentees Aibanbha Dohling, Freddy Lallawmawma and Vibin Mohanan. For the Highlanders, the unavailability of Míchel Zabaco adds to their challenges.

Head-to-Head

In their 19 encounters, Kerala Blasters have dominated with eight victories, while Northeast United FC secured four wins. Seven matches have ended as a draw.

Predicted Line-ups

Kerala Blasters (4-4-2)

Sachin Suresh (GK), Prabir Das, Milos Drincic, Marko Leskovic, Naocha Singh, Mohammed Azhar, Danish Farooq, Daisuke Sakai, Mohammed Aimen, Bidyashagar Singh, Dimitrios Diamantakos

NorthEast United FC (4-3-3)

Dipesh Chauhan (GK), Dinesh Singh, Asheer Akhtar, Gaurav Bora, Buanthanglun Samte, Phalguni Singh, Phillippoteaux (C), Mohammed Bemammer, Redeem Tlang, Nestor Albiach, Parthib Gogoi

Player to Watch

Dimitrios Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters)

With two goals in the Super Cup and an impressive performance, the Greek striker is a force to be reckoned with. As the top scorer in the ISL with seven goals, Diamantakos can convert half chances and will be a key player to watch.

Nestor Albiach (Northeast United)

Having netted three goals in the Super Cup, Nestor Albiach has enjoyed a stellar campaign. In the final match, he aims to add to his tally and secure a top position in the tournament’s scorers, potentially making a decisive impact.

Where to Watch

The Kalinga Super Cup clash between Kerala Blasters and NorthEast United is scheduled for Saturday, January 20, kicking off at 7:30 pm IST. It will be telecast live on the Sports18 Network. For those preferring online streaming, the game will also be available on the JioCinema app and website.

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