KERALA:
Powerhouse Goa will play host to rising Kerala at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Monday, charged enough to give a stern performance against Goa. After their first home victory, Kerala seems to be improving in every match. Earlier they dismantled Bengaluru and Kolkata. Although with only two fixtures, Kerala will be winding up their campaign without making to the top four and it seems like they would play only for their pride. Kerala is currently on 8th position with only 14 matches from 16 matches. Sahal Abdul Samad and Matej Poplatnik will continue to strengthen the mid-field for Kerala and would play a vital role against Gaurs. With the whole winning squad ready for a face-off, it is likely that Kerala will be in their full force to call for a winning game.
Probable Line-up: Dheeraj Singh, Mohammed Rakip, Sandesh Jhingan, Anas Edathodika, Lalruatthara, Sahal Abdul Samad, Courage Pekuson, Keziron Kizito, Seiminlen Doungel, Matej Poplatnik, Slavisla Stojanovic.
GOA:
The Gaurs has been growing stronger with every passing match. They are currently 2nd on the points table with 28 points from 15 matches. Their last winning came against NorthEast and Mumbai and they are unbeaten in the past 5 games. Goa is one of those teams where strength equally lies from both attack and crisp defense. Gaurs are currently aiming to snatch the top position from Bengaluru. Gaurs draw its energy from Ferran Coro who is responsible for maximum goals to crisp assists. With 3 goals from the past 3 matches, Coro will find its way to the net with ease against the likes of Kerala. But breaking the defense of Kerala would be a great task.
Probable Line-ups: Naveen Kumar, Seriton Fernandes, Mourtada Fall, Carlos Pena, Mandar Rao Desai, Ahmed Jahouh, Lenny Rodrigues Jackichand Singh, Edu Bedia, Brandon Fernandes, Ferran Corominas.
Venue:
Date: 18 February 2019
Kickoff: 7:30 PM IST
Place: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa
PlayerzPot Prediction:
A strong midfield from Kerala can slow the pace of continuous attacks from the Gaurs and it is likely that Kerala will put a halt to Gaurs. Gaur’s back to back attacks can create a problem as there are chances of failed attempts because of Kerala’s crisp defence.