NorthEast United FC vs Kerala Blasters FC Preview: Predicted Lineups, Team News | ISL 2026-27
NorthEast United host Kerala Blasters FC at the Sarusajai Stadium
The action for the 2026-27 Indian Super League (ISL) season continues as Kerala Blasters FC travel to Guwahati to face Northeast United FC on October 18.
The match presents a significant early test for Ashley Westwood’s side, who began their campaign with a victory over Inter Kashi and will now face an opponent coming off an impressive result against Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
With Juan Pedro Benali continuing at the helm of NorthEast United and Westwood working to establish his preferred style at Kerala Blasters, both sides have plenty to prove. The Highlanders will look to make home advantage count, while the Blasters will aim to build momentum and improve their collective performance.
The Stakes
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NorthEast United FC
NorthEast enter the contest with confidence after defeating Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their opening fixture. Under Juan Pedro Benali, the Highlanders have developed a reputation for tactical flexibility, with the ability to adjust their defensive structure and exploit spaces during transitions.
Their attacking options, led by Alaeddine Ajaraie, could pose a considerable challenge for the Blasters. The Moroccan forward’s ability to find space, combine with teammates and finish chances makes him a player the visitors cannot afford to neglect. The additions of Antonio Moyano and Eneko Satrustegui in defense makes them tick the boxes, where the Highlanders will look to control possession and create opportunities.
Playing at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium gives the Highlanders an opportunity to turn their opening victory into a positive start to the campaign. However, Kerala Blasters possess enough attacking quality to punish defensive lapses, making concentration and organization crucial for the hosts.
Kerala Blasters FC
For Kerala Blasters, the objective is not simply to collect another three points but to demonstrate that their opening victory can become the foundation for a more consistent campaign. The team has undergone significant changes under the new ownership and Westwood, and establishing a cohesive playing identity remains a priority.
The Blasters showed encouraging signs against Inter Kashi, but Westwood has acknowledged that the squad needs more time to develop its fitness, tactical understanding and coordination. A late squad assembly and limited preparation have made that process challenging.
Nebojša Kosović could be particularly important in helping the team progress the ball and maintain control in midfield. Meanwhile, Mohammed Sanan’s pace and direct running can provide an attacking outlet, especially when NorthEast United leave space behind their defensive line.
Andre Green will also be keen to build on his goal-scoring contribution against Inter Kashi and establish himself as a consistent threat in the final third where Momo Yansane will be longing to make his mark in ISL.
The challenge for the Blasters will be to balance their attacking ambitions with defensive discipline. Against a Northeast side capable of switching formations and attacking quickly, losing possession in dangerous areas could prove costly.
Team News
Kerala Blasters will be without defender Bikash Yumnam, who is recovering from a calf muscle injury. Adrian Luna is not yet confirmed to be available and many players reported to be getting into shape only because of lack in preseason.
For NorthEast United, the latest available squad information does not indicate a major confirmed absence ahead of the fixture. However, the final team selection and any late fitness updates will be important in determining the lineups.
Predicted Lineups
NorthEast United FC (4-2-3-1)
Gurmeet Singh (GK), Nikhil Barla, Asheer Akhtar, Eneko Satrustegui, Pramveer, Antonio Moyano, Macarton Louis Nickson, Mayakkannan, Ethyan Gonzalez, Abdul Rabeeh, Alaeddine Ajaraie.
Kerala Blasters FC (4-3-3)
Arsh Anwar (GK), Naocha Singh, Aiban Dohling, James Bolton, Hormipam Ruivah, Nebojša Kosović, Freddy Lallawmawma, Adrian Luna, Andre Green, Korou Singh, Momo Yansane.
These are indicative predicted lineups, not confirmed team selections. Luna’s inclusion depends on his readiness, and Westwood may adjust the midfield and attacking positions according to fitness and tactical requirements.
Players to Watch Out For
NorthEast United FC – Alaeddine Ajaraie
Ajaraie remains one of NorthEast’s most dangerous attacking players. His movement, finishing ability and capacity to exploit defensive gaps make him a significant threat, particularly if the Blasters struggle to maintain their defensive shape. Kerala’s centre-backs and holding midfielders will need to limit the space available to him and prevent NorthEast from finding him in dangerous positions.
Antonio Moyano is another player to watch. His role in midfield could prove decisive in determining whether the Highlanders can dictate the tempo and supply their forwards consistently.
Kerala Blasters FC – Mohammed Sanan
Sanan’s direct approach and acceleration can give Kerala Blasters an important weapon against NorthEast United. His ability to attack defenders one-on-one, run into open spaces and stretch the opposition’s defensive line could create opportunities for the Blasters to move forward quickly.
Alongside Sanan, Andre Green will be expected to offer creativity and a goal threat from the attacking line. Kosović’s distribution and composure in midfield will also be essential in connecting the defence with the forwards. If Luna is ready to contribute, his vision and ability to deliver incisive passes could further improve Kerala’s attacking combinations alongside Momo.
What to Expect?
The contest could be decided by which side manages transitions and midfield spaces more effectively. The Highlanders will look to build on their confidence and use their tactical flexibility to disrupt Kerala’s rhythm, while the Blasters must remain compact, avoid unnecessary turnovers and make better use of their pace in attack.
For Westwood, this is an opportunity to show progress beyond the result itself. A disciplined defensive display, stronger midfield coordination and sharper decisions in the final third would represent meaningful steps forward. For Benali, another positive performance would reinforce NorthEast United’s early-season momentum.
When and Where to Watch NorthEast United FC vs Kerala Blasters FC?
The Indian Super League 2026–27 fixture between NorthEast United FC and Kerala Blasters FC will take place on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati. The match will kick-off at 7:30 PM IST.
The match will be shown live on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten 2 HD and will be available to stream digitally for free on YouTube.
When will NorthEast United FC play against Kerala Blasters in the 2026-27 ISL?
NorthEast United FC and Kerala Blasters FC will take place on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati.
Where can I watch NorthEast United FC vs Kerala Blasters FC?
The match will be shown live on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten 2 HD and will be available to stream digitally for free on YouTube.
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