Kerala Blasters take on high-flying FC Goa in final away game of season

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The Tuskers were defeated by the Gaurs in the reverse fixture earlier this term.

An interesting encounter awaits in Goa as new-look Kerala Blasters seek to continue their current run of form against a solid and dependable FC Goa. Sergio Lobera's men can officially secure a playoffs spot with a victory against the Yellow Brigade. The Gaurs have been efficient recently, yet to concede since the restart. The arrival of goalkeeper Naveen Kumar has sparked a defensive resurgence and with the playoffs looming, the solidity in defence will be a welcome change.

The Blasters, are also hot since the restart. Despite an unfortunate loss to Delhi, they have gathered five points from four games under Nelo Vingada. Thier fine run culminated with a thrilling victory agianst fellow strugglers Chennaiyin FC at home, their first in Kochi this campaign.

Coach's Corner

Sergio Lobera (FC Goa)

The Goa head coach was not planning to take Kerala Blasters lightly despite their contrasting positions on the table. "In my opinion, we are going to face a very good squad. I think they look completely different with a new coach. I am sure that tomorrow, if we are not at 100%, we are not going to take three points," he explained.

The Spaniard also addressed the improved performance of his team. "One of my goals before the season was to improve on defence and I think we have achieved it. Also, I think it was very important to be regular in terms of performance of the team and I think we have also achieved that."

He continued on the exemplary defensive performance showcased by his team, especially since the introduction of Carlos Pena to partner Mourtada Fall at centre-back." It's true we have improved in defence, but I don't think it's just because we have been playing with Pena and Fall at the back. I think the last game was a good example of good defending. Our defending didn't just start from the back, but it started from the forwards, recovering possession of the ball at the front," the Spaniard concluded.

Nelo Vingada (Kerala Blasters)

The tactician was full of praise for Goa's strength. "We are playing against a strong team who is playing good games and showing why it is in the second position. But, all games start 0-0. Our team will not be here to party. Tomorrow, if you ask me, we have to be better than we were at Bengaluru. Tomorrow we need to be better than we were at Chennai."

He also mentioned the tight schedule his team is on. "It will be a tough match for us. First, because Goa is a great team. Second, because our match was just two days ago. So, the time to recover is a bit shorter than usual. But, the last game gave us the chance to play a good game, to confirm that the team is better than the results were showing."

"I want to say clearly that many things that we are doing is not because I arrive now. Many things were made in the past including the time David James was here. Of course, my idea of the way we play is different," the head coach explained stating that improvements were not because of sudden changes.

"In the beginning, I was feeling like there was sadness in the players. Becasue results were of course not good. If we do not bring happiness to training, we cannot win," Vingada concluded.

Team News

FC Goa

The Goans go into this match without any serious concerns.

Kerala Blasters

Vingada has a fully fit squad at his disposal.

Probable Lineups

FC Goa

Kumar (GK), Seriton, Pena, Fall, Mandar, Lenny,  Jahouh, Bedia, Brandon, Jackichand, Corominas.

Kerala Blasters

Dheeraj (GK), Rakip, Lalruatthara, Jhinghan, Lakic-Pesic, Keziron, Pekuson, Abdul Samad, Poplatnik, Stojanovic, Doungel.

Did You Know?

• Ferran Corominas has 13 goals in the league this season till now and leads the race for the Golden Boot.

• Kerala Blasters have conceded the most number of goals in a single match this season in the ISL. Mumbai City scored six goals past them at the Mumbai Football Arena.

• Last time these two sides met in Goa, Ferran Corominas led form the front and scored a hat-trick in the process. Goa won the match 5-2.

Broadcast

The match will kick-off at 7:30 PM, 18th February, at the Jawaharlal Stadium, Madgaon. It will be broadcasted by Star Sports, and streamed by Hotstar and Jio TV.