As the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season heats up, Kerala Blasters FC and East Bengal FC will be looking to secure their first victory in the competition.
Both teams come into this highly anticipated encounter having lost their opening games, making Sunday’s clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi, a crucial fixture for both sides. The game kicks off at 7:30 pm IST, with fans eagerly awaiting a thrilling contest between two iconic teams.
Kerala Blasters Eyeing Home Redemption
Kerala Blasters, known for their passionate supporters and electric atmosphere at home, were handed a narrow 2-1 defeat by Punjab FC in their opening match. Despite controlling the majority of possession (57.3%) and registering more shots on target (4), the Blasters fell to a last-gasp goal in added time. Mikael Stahre, Kerala’s new head coach, is determined to see his team bounce back stronger and more precise.
“We dominated several key aspects of the game, but it’s the end result that matters. We need to be more clinical, especially in attack,” Stahre remarked. The Swedish coach emphasized the need for increased technical precision and effective finishing as his team looks to avoid consecutive defeats at the start of the season.
East Bengal’s Road to Recovery
On the other side, East Bengal FC opened their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 loss to Bengaluru FC. Despite the narrow defeat, there were positives for head coach Carles Cuadrat. The Red and Gold Brigade created numerous opportunities, particularly through the promising displays of youngsters PV Vishnu and Aman CK, who added pace and creativity in the latter stages of the game.
Cuadrat, a tactical mastermind with a strong record against Kerala Blasters, highlighted the importance of converting chances. “We tried to exploit spaces with our speed, and the young players gave us a real push. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find the net, but I’m confident we’ll get better,” he said ahead of the clash. Cuadrat’s teams have a strong scoring record against the Blasters, with his squads netting 15 times in seven previous ISL meetings. His tactical upper hand could play a decisive role in Sunday’s contest.
Key Players To Watch
Jesús Jiménez (Kerala Blasters)
Kerala Blasters will be looking to their new recruit, Spanish striker Jesús Jiménez, who scored in his debut against Punjab FC.
Jiménez became the eighth player to score in his first game for Kerala, showcasing his immediate impact. With home support on their side, Jiménez could be the key to unlocking East Bengal’s defense.
Pritam Kotal (Kerala Blasters)
Pritam Kotal, the Blasters’ experienced defender, also brings a unique statistic into this match—he has won all seven of his previous ISL games against East Bengal.
This is his second-best winning record against any opponent in the league, a testament to his dominance in this fixture.
Noah Sadaoui (Kerala Blasters)
Another name to watch is Kerala’s Noah Sadaoui, who has been the most active player in the opposition’s box since the start of 2024, averaging 7.3 touches per 90 minutes.
His ability to constantly stay involved in dangerous areas could prove pivotal in Kerala’s quest for their first win.
Dimitrios Diamantakos (East Bengal)
For East Bengal, all eyes will be on Dimitrios Diamantakos, who won the Golden Boot in ISL 2023-24 while playing for Kerala Blasters.
The Greek forward will be eager to make a statement against his former team. After scoring in East Bengal’s Durand Cup match against Indian Air Force, Diamantakos will be keen to continue his scoring streak and silence the Kochi crowd.
Madih Talal (East Bengal FC)
For East Bengal, Madih Talal has been a standout performer, having impressed in his debut ISL campaign with Punjab FC. Talal’s creativity and ability to generate chances make him a vital cog in Cuadrat’s system.
After already demonstrating his playmaking skills, Talal will look to combine
Tactical Battle: Attack vs Precision
Both sides come into this clash with different tactical philosophies. Kerala Blasters are expected to control possession, with Stahre emphasizing passing accuracy and the need to involve more players in attacks. However, the Blasters will need to be cautious, as East Bengal’s counter-attacking style could expose gaps in their defense.
Cuadrat’s East Bengal, on the other hand, will likely focus on speed and efficiency in front of goal. The Spanish coach has a proven track record against Kerala, and his use of young, energetic players like PV Vishnu and Aman CK to exploit spaces could be a defining factor. Cuadrat will be hoping his players can convert the chances they create, as they did against Bengaluru, but this time with a more clinical edge.
Kerala Blasters vs East Bengal FC: Head-to-Head Record
- Total Matches Played – 8
- Kerala Blasters wins – 3
- East Bengal wins – 2
- Draws – 3
Kerala Blasters vs East Bengal FC: Injury & Team News
Kerala Blasters
Kerala Blasters will be without Adrian Luna, as he has not fully recovered from his illness.
East Bengal FC
East Bengal remain concerned about the fitness of defenders Nishu Kumar and Provat Lakra, both sidelined due to injuries sustained during pre-season. Additionally, Lalchungnunga is suspended following his red card in the previous game.
Kerala Blasters vs East Bengal FC: Predicted Lineups
Kerala Blasters: Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Sachin Suresh
- Defenders: Sandeep Singh, Pritam Kotal, Milos Drincic, Aibanbha Dohling
- Midfielders: Vibin Mohanan, Alexandre Coeff, Noah Sadoui
- Forwards: Rahul KP, Mohammed Aimen, Jesus Jimenez
East Bengal: FC Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Prabhsukhan Gill
- Defenders: Mohamed Rakip, Hijazi Maher, Anwar Ali, Mark Zothanpuia
- Midfielders: Jeakson Singh, Saul Crespo, Madih Talal
- Forwards: Mahesh Singh, Nandhakumar Sekar, Dimitrios Diamantakos
Kerala Blasters FC vs East Bengal FC: Match Prediction
With both teams searching for their first win, this clash promises to be a highly competitive affair. Kerala Blasters, buoyed by their passionate fan base at home, will be desperate to secure three points and avoid an early-season slump. Meanwhile, East Bengal will be equally motivated, knowing a win could lift their spirits and set the tone for the rest of the season.
In what could be a defining game for both teams, expect nothing short of an enthralling battle as Kerala Blasters and East Bengal FC fight tooth and nail for their first win in ISL 2024-25.
Where and Where To Watch The Match
The 2024-25 Indian Super League match featuring Kerala Blasters FC and East Bengal FC is set to take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Sunday, 22 September. The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 PM IST. Fans can catch the live broadcast on Sports18, with streaming available on Jio Cinema. International viewers can tune in via the OneFootball app.
Read More: Premier League 2024/25 – Manchester City vs Arsenal: Preview and Prediction
When is the Kerala Blasters FC vs East Bengal FC match?
The ISL 2024-25 match between Kerala Blasters FC and East Bengal FC will be held on Sunday, 22 September at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi, from 7:30 PM (IST) onwards.
