The
Indian Super League (ISL) clash on September 29, 2024, between Kerala
Blasters FC and NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic
Stadium, Guwahati, promises to be a highly competitive encounter. Both
teams have experienced a mixed start to their ISL 2024-25 campaign, with
each side securing a win and suffering a loss in their respective
opening matches.
Pre-match Context and Stakes
NorthEast
United FC enters this match after an emotional rollercoaster in their
first two games. They began the season on a positive note, winning 1-0
against Mohammedan SC, only to be defeated 3-2 in a nail-biting contest
against Mohun Bagan Super Giant. For NorthEast, the match against Kerala
Blasters will be about bouncing back from their recent disappointment
and restoring momentum. Their recent form suggests they can be a potent
attacking force, but their defense has been inconsistent, especially in
the dying moments of matches(
)
().
Kerala
Blasters, meanwhile, come into this game after an exhilarating 2-1
victory against East Bengal, where they scored a late winner. Having
lost their opening match to Punjab FC, the Blasters are looking to
maintain their winning form under their new coach, Mikael Stahre, a
tactician known for his calculated and disciplined style of play. This
fixture marks their first away game of the season, adding extra pressure
as they aim to solidify their playoff aspirations(
)
().
Tactical Approaches and Key Players
For
NorthEast United, the Moroccan forward Alaeddine Ajaraie has been a
standout performer, having scored multiple goals across competitions
this season. His ability to create chances, penetrate defenses with his
dribbling skills, and finish with clinical precision makes him a
constant threat in the opposition’s final third. Supporting him in
attack are Jithin MS and Parthiv Gogoi, who have the pace and flair to
create opportunities from the wings. However, the Highlanders’ defense
has shown vulnerability, especially in late-game situations(
)
().
Kerala
Blasters' strength lies in their balanced squad. Their new Moroccan
forward Noah Sadaoui has already shown promise with his goal against
East Bengal, and his combination with attackers Jesus Jimenez and Kwame
Peprah makes the Blasters’ frontline dangerous. Defensively, Kerala is
more solid, with experienced players like Pritam Kotal and Milos Drincic
leading the backline, which will aim to neutralize NorthEast’s
attacking threat. Additionally, Kerala has shown resilience in recent
games, scoring crucial goals in the final stages, showcasing their
ability to fight until the last whistle(
)
().
Head-to-Head and Historical Rivalry
The
historical record between these two teams shows Kerala Blasters with a
slight edge. In their 20 ISL meetings, Kerala has won eight times, while
NorthEast United has won five, with seven matches ending in draws. This
rivalry has seen closely contested games in recent years, with
NorthEast getting the better of Kerala in two out of their last three
meetings, including a 2-0 win last season. However, Kerala Blasters,
under new management, will be keen to rewrite that narrative and
continue their dominance(
)
().
Both
teams have showcased late-game heroics in their previous matches this
season, with multiple goals coming after the 85th minute. This suggests
that the outcome of this match may very well hinge on who can maintain
their composure and capitalize on chances in the closing stages.
Set-pieces and crosses will be crucial for Kerala, who have been potent
in aerial duels, scoring several headed goals this season(
).
Key Battles and Predictions
The
battle in midfield will be one to watch. Kerala’s Vibin Mohanan and
Alexandre Coeff will look to control the tempo, while NorthEast’s
Bemammer and Mayakkannan will aim to disrupt Kerala’s flow and launch
quick counter-attacks. Both teams will need to manage their defenses
carefully, especially in transitions, as both sides possess forwards
capable of exploiting any lapse in concentration.
Given Kerala’s
more robust defense and the form of their attackers, they might come
into the match as slight favorites. However, NorthEast, playing at home
in front of a passionate Guwahati crowd, will not make things easy. The
match could come down to individual brilliance—whether that’s Ajaraie or
Sadaoui—and which defense holds stronger under pressure.
Conclusion
As
Kerala Blasters take on NorthEast United, both teams have much at
stake. NorthEast will seek redemption after their last defeat, while
Kerala aims to continue their positive momentum. With both sides
fielding potent attacking lineups and showing a tendency to score late
goals, fans can expect an exciting, closely fought contest. The result
of this match could play a key role in shaping the early playoff race in
the ISL 2024-25 season, adding an extra layer of importance to what is
already a highly anticipated encounter(
)
().