Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United FC lineups, team news, prediction & preview

Kerala Blasters are set to battle the Highlanders at home after back-to-back wins.

Kerala Blasters are all set to face NorthEast United in their next home game of Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi on January 18 (Saturday).

Both sides met earlier in the league at the end of Matchweek 3, where Alaaeddine Ajaraei scored from a seemingly harmless free kick that was fumbled by Sachin Suresh, to put the home side in the lead. The Blasters struck back with Noah Sadaoui’s left-footed strike from long range to level the score.

The Highlanders tomorrow at Kaloor 👊🏻😤#KeralaBlasters #KBFC #YennumYellow #ISL #KBFCNEU pic.twitter.com/x4HNzbMRpH

— Kerala Blasters FC (@KeralaBlasters) January 17, 2025

Guillermo’s header from a free kick, which seemed to seal the win for the Highlanders, was ruled out for offside. Asheer Akhtar was sent off late in the game for a rash two-footed tackle on Noah Sadaoui. However, the Tuskers could not capitalise on their numerical advantage, and the match ended in a stalemate.

Stakes

Kerala Blasters

Kerala Blasters are in scintillating form, winning three of their last four encounters in the league, making a strong statement since the managerial change. A win against NorthEast United at home would bring them a step closer to their playoff dreams.

NorthEast United FC

NorthEast have recently hit a winless streak, following three consecutive draws in the league. The Highlanders will aim for a victory against the Blasters, hoping to add crucial points and secure their playoff spot.

Injury and Team News

Kerala Blasters have no injuries or suspensions to deal with, although Ishan Pandita is still recovering. While for NorthEast United FC, Hamza Regragui has recovered from an injury and is in contention to play against Kerala.

Head-to-Head

Matches Played: 21

Kerala Blasters: 8 wins

NorthEast United FC: 5 wins

Draws: 8

Predicted Lineups

Kerala Blasters FC (4-2-3-1)

Sachin Suresh (GK); Naocha Singh, Hormipam Ruivah, Milos Drincic, Aibanbha Dohling, Freddy, Vibin Mohanan, Korou Singh, Noah Sadaoui, Adrian Luna; Kwame Peprah

NorthEast United FC (4-2-3-1)

Gurmeet Singh (GK); Redeem Tlang, Asheer Akhtar, Hamza Regragui, B Samte; Mohammed Ali Bemmamer, Mayakkannan; Macarton Louis Nickson, Alaeddine Ajaraie, Jithin MS; Guillermo Fernandes

Players to Watch

Korou Singh Thingujam (Kerala Blasters)

Korou Singh has been in formidable form since his debut for the Blasters. TG Purushothaman has unlocked his creative potential in the wing, as reflected in the youngster’s impressive tally of four assists this season. Korou Singh will have a telling role on the flanks in the game against NorthEast United.

Alaaeddine Ajaraei (NorthEast United FC)

Alaaeddine Ajaraei has been the most influential forward this season in the ISL, contributing 15 goals and 5 assists in 16 appearances for the Highlanders. The winger has already scored against the Blasters and has the potential to once again be a decisive factor for NorthEast United.

Did you know?

• Kerala Blasters have remained unbeaten at home against NorthEast United FC in the Indian Super League.
• NorthEast United have scored first in four out of the last five encounters between the two sides.
• Kerala Blasters have not kept a clean sheet against NorthEast United in their last four ecounters.

Telecast Details

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 fixture between Kerala Blasters and NorthEast United FC will take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on 18 January. The match will kick off at 7:30 PM IST.

The match will be telecast live on Sports 18 and will be available for streaming on Jio Cinema. International viewers can also watch the match on the OneFootball app.

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