Kerala Blasters FC will be on the hunt for redemption this Sunday as they face off against struggling Mohammedan SC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi. The match, set to kick off at 7:30 PM IST on December 22, 2024, is being touted as pivotal for both teams, who find themselves near the bottom of the Indian Super League (ISL) standings. Following their previous matchup, which saw Kerala snatch victory with a 2-1 scoreline on October 21, the Blasters are eager to repeat their success against the Black Panthers, who currently languish at the foot of the table.
Kerala Blasters enter this contest amid turmoil, having lost their last three matches, including a recent disappointment against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, where they fell 2-3. Their current standings place them at 10th position, amassing just 11 points from 12 games—leaving them clamoring for points to stave off the prospect of enduring their longest losing streak of four, recorded during the 2022-23 season.
This match is particularly significant for the Blasters as they seek to achieve only their second league double since the ISL's inception, with their first being over FC Pune City back in 2014. With star player Noah Sadaoui contributing directly to eight goals this season (four goals and four assists), his form will be central to Kerala's attack as they attempt to regain momentum.
Meanwhile, the situation for Mohammedan SC is equally bleak. Occupying last place, they have managed to muster only five points from 11 matches, showcasing their struggles, especially offensively. They have not scored in their last two matches—a drought matched only by East Bengal FC's inaugural season—highlighting their pressing need for defensive solidity and offensive creativity, especially with only 20% of their season's goals coming from strikers.
The coaching staff for both teams is feeling the heat. T. G. Purushothaman, interim head coach for the Blasters, remarked, "Every team has their own strengths and weaknesses. Each game can present its challenges, and we must perform well at home." This statement reflects the urgency with which Kerala must approach this match if they wish to deflect pressure and boost their morale.
On the opposite bench, Andrey Chernyshov expressed his faith in his players, stating, "It’s great working with these professionals. They’re passionate about their jobs and the club. Sometimes in football, you play well but still end up without a result." Chernyshov's confidence might be what the Black Panthers need as they aim to overcome their formidable opponents.
Notably, Jesus Jimenez stands out for Kerala, having netted nine goals this season and holding the third-highest expected goals (xG) differential of +3.58. His ability to convert chances will be pivotal if the Blasters hope to capitalize on any weaknesses presented by Mohammedan's defense.
With both teams underperforming, fans can expect heated action as Kerala attempts to turn their season around and Mohammedan looks for any signs of life to lift them from the bottom. The stakes couldn't be higher for both teams desperate to shake off their sluggish forms. The strong desire to secure all three points makes this matchup not just another fixture but potentially a turning point for both franchises.
This match will be broadcast live across India on the Sports 18 Network as well as available for streaming on the JioCinema app and website, ensuring fans get to witness this potentially dramatic encounter.
