Kerala Blasters FC
will be aiming for their first-ever league double against
Hyderabad FC
when both sides face each other in their last league match of ISL-10 in Hyderabad on Friday.
The Blasters defeated Hyderabad 1-0 in the first leg at Kochi last November. Hyderabad has won only one game in 21 matches this season, and getting past them won’t be a big ask for the Kerala side.
However, the visitors too have some issues to address in defense and attack.
The Blasters have given away a goal in each of their last nine games in the
ISL
. If they continue to do so again on Friday, it will be their longest-ever goal-conceding streak in the competition.
Blasters coach
Ivan Vukomanovic
, while addressing the media before leaving for Hyderabad, said that most of the players who took the field against
NorthEast United FC
are unlikely to be part of the playing XI.
“We have to stay in good shape and positive rhythm so that we are ready for the playoffs. Some of the players are coming back from injuries, so we have to be careful of that,” said Blasters head coach Vukomanovic.
The result of the match is inconsequential for both sides, as it won’t affect the current points table. The Blasters have already booked a place in the playoff, while Hyderabad is at the bottom of the points table.
“Certain teams have players that make a difference for them. We have a bunch of young players, and we’ve tried our best to do well and get the messages across the pitch,” said Hyderabad FC head coach
Thangboi Singto
.
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