The NorthEast United is all set to take on the Kerala Blasters on Friday at the Jawaharlal Nehru international stadium in Kochi.
It is the third away Indian Super League (ISL) fixture for the Highlanders.
North East United coach Joao De Deus was confident that his team could win against Kerala Blasters, which has been hit by injuries defeats in away matches.
“We will approach tomorrow’s match as a fresh start. I have a good feeling that we will play well and win against Blasters,” the coach said, adding that the players got enough rest and good practice for a great match on Friday.
There may be some additional advantage for the Northeast United team as Kerala Blasters will probably be without its two key players — Wes Brown and Iain Hume, both down with injures.
However, the team will be boosted by the return of C. K. Vineeth to the squad.
The Highlanders have four points from the last four matches, while the Kerala team is yet to open its account.
The confident coach said the home team will be under tremendous pressure in the home ground for its continuous failures this season. “And, it is going to be in our advantage,” Joao De Deus said.
The Kerala Blasters coach Meulensteen has rated the NorthEast United as a dangerous side.
“There is enough quality in the NEUFC team. Their forwards are as good. We need to be on our guard and deny goal scoring opportunities to them,’’ he said.
