GUWAHATI, Oct 17: NorthEast United FC will look to extend their winning start to the 2026-27 Indian Super League season when they host Kerala Blasters FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium here on Sunday. Kick-off is scheduled for 7.30 pm.
The Highlanders began their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant, with Jithin MS scoring a late winner to secure three points. They will now aim to build on that result and maintain their early momentum against a Kerala side that has proved a difficult opponent in recent meetings.The head-to-head record remains relatively balanced, with Kerala winning nine of their 25 encounters, NorthEast United claiming six victories and 10 matches ending in draws.
Their most recent meeting, in Kochi on April 15, ended 1-1, following another draw by the same scoreline in September 2024 and a goalless stalemate in January 2025.
However, NorthEast United have enjoyed convincing results against the Kerala outfit, including a 2-0 ISL victory in April 2024 and a commanding 4-1 win in the Super Cup in January of the same year.
Highlanders head coach Juan Pedro Benali expects another closely fought contest, praising Kerala’s squad balance and tactical approach under Ashley Westwood.
“We are facing a very good team. Kerala have a balanced squad, with experienced players and young talent, and they have a good coach with a clear idea of how he wants his team to play,” Benali said at the pre-match press conference.
Describing the tactical contest, he added, “It is like a chess game. Ashley is a very good coach, talented and smart. Kerala are a tough team.” (Agencies)