FC Goa vs Kerala Blasters FC – 3 Key Battles to watch out for

by Chittu Shetty January 23, 2021

FC Goa are set to lock horns with Kerala Blasters FC at the Goa Medical College Ground in the city of Bambolim. Both the sides come into the clash on the back of promising victories, however with different motivations.

FC Goa are currently placed on the third position in the ISL standings after the end of twelve matches of the league stage. The Gaurs are on a five game unbeaten run and have emerged steadily as one of the ISL title contenders.

Their opponents Kerala Blasters FC are down below in the ninth spot with a meager tally of 13 points from the same number of matches. The Blasters have not lost in their previous three matches after having faced defeat in two consecutive encounters.

Despite the difference in the ISL standings positions, Kerala Blasters FC can’t be counted out and FC Goa will be wary of that fact.

We take a look at three crucial player battles that will have a big impact on the match’s result.

1. FC Goa attacking duo vs Kerala Blasters defence

FC Goa have always been known to get onboard some of the best attacking players to have played in the ISL. With the acquisition of Igor Angulo and Jorge Ortiz Mendoza, they have maintained their streak. The Gaurs’ attacking duo has worked well together in the frontline in recent encounters. They will have to get the better of a young Kerala defence helmed by Costa Nhamoinesu. Sandeep Singh and Denechandra Meitei have been impressive in the recent encounters as well.

2. The battle of the Spanish midfielders

With the debut of Juande Lopez, Kerala Blasters replaced Sergio Cidoncha with his fellow countryman in the midfield. Along with Vicente Gomez, the Spanish duos have the responsibility of forging attacks for their frontline. On the other end, the FC Goa defence has been performing at a highly intense level for a long time. Edu Bedia, Brandon Fernandes and Alberto Noguera are the key men in the midfield along with the added zeal from youngsters like Princeton Rebello and Alexander Romario Jesuraj.

3. FC Goa defence vs Jordan Murray

The Gaur defence has held strong over the span of last few games with the overseas duo of James Donachie and Ivan Gonzalez playing a key role in the backline. The Gaurs have conceded 12 goals in as many matches, the third-best tally in the entire league. They will be up against Jordan Murray, a man in form for the Blasters in their recent clashes. After 4 substitution appearances at the start of the season, Murray has went on to score 6 goals in last 8 games and cemented his spot in the starting eleven. The battle between the two Australians – Donachie and Murray will be an interesting one to watch out for.