New Delhi: Atletico de Kolkata need just a point to secure their place in the Indian Super League semi-finals, when they take on Kerala Blasters at the Rabindra Sarobar Stadium in Kolkata on Tuesday.
The hosts are placed third with 18 points from 12 matches and a draw on Tuesday will guarantee them a top-four finish. The former champions enjoy a superior head-to-head record against Blasters and NorthEast United FC, while only one of those team can overtake Delhi Dynamos’ points tally as they battle amongst themselves in the concluding league clash.
Based on current form, Kolkata will be favourites to become the third team to book their place. They scored a last-gasp 2-1 victory against FC Goa in their last match. It was a match they dominated and deserved to score more goals, a fact that was emphasised by their coach Jose Molina.
The hosts are sweating on the fitness of star midfielder Sameehg Doutie, besides Stephen Pearson and Lalrindika Ralte. While Doutie has fever and didn’t train with the team, Lalrindika and Pearson have not recovered from injuries.
Kerala have done well to reach the fourth spot for now after collecting just a point from their first three matches. A win for Blasters will take them closer to the semi-final spot, who are on a four-match winning streak at home but have failed to impress in away games.
