Sahal’s absence is a major setback
Sahal Abdul Samad, who was injured during training ahead of the second quarter semi – final against Jamshedpur FC, has been ruled out of the final. Ishfaq Ahmed, co-coach of Kerala Blasters, told Asianet News yesterday. The absence of Sahal in sparkling form this season is a major setback for the Yellows in the final. In the absence of Sahal, Nishu Kumar and Rahul KP may be in the squad for the finals.
Also Read: Blasters superstar not to play in final; Heavy setback for the team, huge disappointment for the fans
Gill in front of goal
Prabhusukhan Gill, who replaced Albinho Gomez, who was ruled out of the season due to injury, as the team’s number one goalkeeper, will be the team’s top scorer in the final as well. The 21-year-old is also leading the fight for the Golden Glow this season. Gill, who has taken seven clean sheets in 19 games, has already made 42 saves.
Stiffness resistance
The Hormipam Ruiwa-Marco Leskovich center-back duo have put in a stellar performance for the Blasters this season. They will be the team’s center back positions in the finals. Harman Jot Khabra is likely to play in the right book position and Sandeep Singh in the left back position. Khabra put on a stellar performance in the second quarter semi-final against Jamshedpur. If he can continue this performance in the final, things will be easier for the Blasters.
The midfield will be led by Luna
Sahal will not play due to injury. Sahal will be replaced by Nishu Kumar or Malayalee Rahul KP in the final XI. Jackson Singh is expected to replace AYUSH Adhikari, who was in the starting XI in the second quarter semi – final, in the starting XI in the final. Putia and Adrian Luna will be the other midfielders. In this, Luna’s performance will be crucial in determining the team’s chances of winning the title.
No change in progress
The forward alliance of Jorge Pereira Diaz and Alvaro Vasquez will also line up for the Blasters in the final. Both are in brilliant form this season and are capable of conceding even half-chances. The second-half semifinal saw Diaz excel on defense as well as attack. The Blasters will be able to jump at more energy if Diaz plays with the same work rate in the final. At the same time, fans are hoping that Vasquez’s ability to score long-range goals will help the team in the final.
Also Read: The backbone behind the dreamy performances of the Kerala Blasters, do not forget this man; The only Ishfaq Ahmed
The Kerala Blasters’ starting XI knows the possibility of a final match
Goalkeeper – Prabhusukhan Gill, defensive line – Harmanjot Khabra, Ruiva Hormipam, Marco Leskovic, Sandeep Singh, midfield – Adrian Luna, Jackson Singh, Putia, Nishukumar, forward – Alvaro Vasquez, George Pereira Diaz.
