Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City FC face must-win matches in ISL

Kochi/Mumbai, Feb 28: As the Indian Super League (ISL) nears its business end, Kerala Blasters and Mumbai City FC face crucial matches on Saturday that could decide their playoff fate.
Desperate for a win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, Kerala Blasters host Jamshedpur FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi. The Blasters need to win all their remaining three matches to stand any chance of qualification, while also relying on other results. With 24 points from 21 games, the Kochi-based side has struggled for consistency, failing to score in their last two home fixtures.Despite their patchy form, the Blasters can take heart from their unbeaten home record against Jamshedpur. Interim head coach TG Purushothaman stressed the importance of a positive result.“Our only goal right now is to win the coming match. More so, because we are playing at home and we want to do well. We must continue working hard to get a positive result,” Purushothaman said on the eve of the match.On the other hand, Jamshedpur FC have already secured a playoff spot and will be eyeing a league double over Kerala Blasters, having won the reverse fixture 1-0. Head coach Khalid Jamil assured that his team would not let their guard down.
In another key fixture, Mumbai City FC face a stern challenge against newly-crowned League Winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Mumbai Football Arena. Mumbai City are yet to confirm their playoff berth, sitting sixth in the table with 32 points from 21 matches. They need four more points from their remaining three fixtures to secure a top-six finish.The Islanders have endured a below-par season, registering just eight wins — their lowest tally since the 2020-21 campaign. Head coach Petr Kratky acknowledged his team’s inefficiency in front of goal.Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, fresh from defending their ISL League Winners’ Shield, will aim to maintain their unbeaten away record in their last five outings. Head coach Jose Molina credited his team’s hard work and talent for their success.“Football is very difficult and very easy at the same time. The secret to success is the same — it’s to work hard, be focused, and have good talent in the squad,” Molina said.
Both matches are set to have significant implications in the playoff race, with Kerala Blasters fighting for survival and Mumbai City FC looking to consolidate their position. (Agencies)