Kerala Blasters FC vs NorthEast United FC, Indian Super League 2024-2025, Today Match Prediction

Kerala Blasters FC vs NorthEast United FC Match Prediction & Analysis

In Round 18 of the Indian Super League, Kerala Blasters are set to battle NorthEast United at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Saturday, January 18th, at 7:30 p.m. IST. The hosts, Kerala Blasters, come into this clash riding high after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Odisha FC. Meanwhile, NorthEast United will be full of confidence after earning a hard-fought 1-1 draw against the strong Goa side. Both teams are eager to build on these results in what promises to be an exciting encounter.

In their last encounter, the game ended in a 1-1 draw, with NorthEast United once again letting a lead slip away, costing them vital points. The Highlanders will not want a repeat of that result. However, the key point is that, in the last 10 meetings in Kerala, the Blasters have dominated with 5 wins and 5 draws, while the visitors remain winless, making it a challenging ground for them. Thus, in our opinion, this fact alone makes the home side the favorites for this clash.

Current Standings: The Blasters sit at the 9th position in the table with just 20 points from 16 games, while NorthEast continues to hover around the top half of the table at the 5th position with 24 points from 16 matches.

Head-to-head Record: These two teams have played each other 21 times in the ISL, with the Blasters edging out the Highlanders with a win-loss record of 8-5.

TEAMS PREVIEW

Kerala Blasters FC Preview

In a thrilling, back-and-forth encounter, Kerala Blasters snatched a dramatic injury-time victory over Odisha FC, thanks to Noah Sadaoui's last-gasp strike. The hero who had sealed the win against Punjab once again delivered in the clutch, sending the fans into a frenzy with a memorable finish. 

The win marked a crucial milestone for Kerala Blasters, as it not only secured their second victory in three matches but also delivered their first back-to-back triumph of the season. A sign that the team’s momentum is finally building, this victory could be a game-changer in their campaign.

Noah Sadaoui is emerging as Kerala Blasters' key player this season, with back-to-back match-winning goals and a tally of 7. But it's not just his scoring that stands out. In the Odisha game, he completed 26 out of 29 passes, set up a goal, and made vital defensive contributions, including a clearance and two tackles, whilst creating four goal-scoring opportunities. Sadaoui's all-round performance is proving him to be an invaluable asset to the team. 

Team News

Kerala Blasters are heading into their clash with NorthEast United with no major injury concerns, and fans can expect the same starting lineup that triumphed over Odisha.

Stats that matter

1. Kerala Blasters FC are on a two-match winning streak at home.
2. Noah Sadaoui has assisted (5) the most for Kerala Blasters this season.
3. Kerala Blasters have scored most of their goals in the period of 61-75.

Kerala Blasters Probable XI -  S. Suresh(GK); Dohling, P. Kotal, Ruivah, H. N. Singh, Lallawmawma, Coeff, Sadoui, Thingujam, Peprah, A. Luna

NorthEast United FC Preview

Kerala Blasters have hit their stride, finding the winning formula week after week, while NorthEast United find themselves trapped in a frustrating loop, unable to break free from another drawn result—this time against the Giant. A draw against Goa might feel like a win for NorthEast at this stage, but it was déjà vu from the Punjab game, as they once again squandered a lead, conceding a late goal to hand their opponents a hard-earned equalizer.

The Highlanders have let slip 16 points from winning positions, the most in the league. While their playoff hopes are still alive, it underscores a critical defensive flaw that urgently needs fixing if they’re to make a real push.

Team News 

A key concern for Goa emerges as Spanish forward Guillermo Fernandez picks up an injury during the match, leaving his availability for future games in question. 

Stats that matter

1. NorthEast currently tied 1st with Odisha  in terms of the number of goals (31) scored by a team this season.
2. NorthEast United have won their last two matches at home.
3. With 14, NorthEast United has tallied the second highest number of points from away games this season.
4. Alaedine Ajaray is NorthEast's top scorer with 15 goals.

North East United Probable XI -  Gurmeet Singh (GK), Tlang, Akhtar, Samte, Zabaco, Mayakkanan, Nickson, Bemammer, Jithin, Ajaraie, Guillermo/Nestor Albiach

KERALA BLASTERS FC vs NORTHEAST UNITED FC
Winning Prediction

Unsurprisingly, most bookmakers echo the sentiment, making Kerala Blasters the clear favorites for this upcoming clash. Kerala Blasters are the favorites to win with odds of 2.09 against NorthEast United's 3.35, and the odds for a draw are 3.62.

Kerala Blasters to Win (2-1)

1xBet

330% up to ₹65,000 on your 1st Deposit with Reg Code: TOPBK

BET NOW