ISL 2020-21: FC Goa vs Kerala Blasters - Preview, Predicted Lineups and Channel

Preview

The second match on Super Sunday in the Indian Super League (ISL) will see hosts FC Goa take on Kerala Blasters at the Fatorda stadium. For the Blasters, this will be the litmus test of their credibility as title contenders after a winless streak that goes back four matches. Juan Ferrando’s FC Goa will also be looking to bag their first win of the season after a disappointing first three results.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQw2gmqOFCs

At home, FC Goa has not lost to the Tuskers in their last 3 encounters while Kibu Vicuna’s men haven’t won any of their last 5 away matches. Both Goa and Kerala are looking for some inspiration as the two ISL heavyweights languish at 8th and 9th respectively. However, this fixture has in the past yielded an average of 3.8 goals per game and there’s no reason why this one should be any different.

Squad Overview

Juan Ferrando’s side made a decent start to their campaign after coming back from 2-0 down to draw against Bengaluru FC. However, the side hasn’t really clicked since even though they have played some attractive football in patches. Igor Angulo and Brandon Fernandes will be the key men for the Gaurs while new signing Alberto Noguera will be expected to take it up a notch.

They will still be missing the services of Redeem Tlang though, after his suspension was extended following a hefty challenge in the match against Mumbai City. Lenny Rodrigues, Jorge Ortiz and Edu Bedia are the other midfielders who should feature against a talented Blasters side. Their defence is a cause for concern with the partnership of Ivan Gonzalez and James Donachie not settled yet. Aiban Dohling who had a decent outing in the last game against NorthEast just might start ahead of either of the two foreigners.

https://twitter.com/FCGoaOfficial/status/1335441351782096896

The Blasters have lost their captain Sergio Cidoncha to an injury at least for the group stages. Arjun Jayaraj has mutually parted ways while Naorem Mahesh and Shaiborlang Kharpan have joined Sudeva FC on loan. Jessel Carneiro should start after coming off the bench against Chennaiyin. It remains to be seen if striker Jordan Murray gets a look in tonight after making a couple of cameo appearances from the bench.

Defensively, Kibu Vicuna’s men have looked a little hot and cold. The experience of Costa Nhamoinesu and Bakary Kone has been a blessing but at the same time the duo lack pace. Nishu Kumar as right back has done his job quite well while the other youngsters Nongdamba Naorem and Rohit Kumar are still getting into their groove. Givson Singh is another player who might have a shot for a starting position.

Predicted Lineups and Result

FC Goa:

Mohammad Nawaz, Seriton Fernandes, Ivan Gonzalez, James Donachie, Saviour Gama, Lenny Rodrigues, Edu Bedia, Brandon Fernandes, Alberto Noguera, Jorge Ortiz, Igor Angulo

Kerala Blasters:

Albino Gomes, Nishu Kumar, Bakary Kone, Costa Nhamoinesu, Jessel Carneiro, Seityasen Singh, Rohit Kumar, Sahal Abdul Samad, Facundo Pereyra, Nongdomba Naorem, Gary Hooper

TV Channel and Livestream

The match will be telecast across Star Network’s sports and regional channels. It can also be streamed live on Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV. Kick-off is at 7:30 pm IST.