Kerala Blasters FC take on Bengaluru FC in Match 65 of Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2020-21 at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim on Wednesday. Both sides come into the game on the back of 1-1 draws and will be looking for an important win to push for a place in the top four. On this note, we take a look at some of the talking points from the upcoming encounter between Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC.

Individual mistakes costing the Blues defensively

Bengaluru were held to a 1-1 draw by NorthEast United FC in their last match and with that result, the Blues have now not kept a clean sheet in their last eight matches. Their last match saw the Highlanders score the opening goal after Bengaluru gifted them possession in midfield. They also conceded goals due to similar lapses at the back against SC East Bengal and Mumbai City FC. The Blues will need to be wary of such defensive errors if they want to secure a much-needed win against Kerala.

Kerala Blasters have lost 10 points from winning positions

When Bengaluru took on Kerala Blasters in their last match, it was the Kochi-based club that took the lead courtesy a goal by Rahul KP. However, they went on to concede three goals in the second half which snatched the victory from under their feet. That loss was just one of many instances where Kerala Blasters have not been able to hold on to their narrow leads. Kibu Vicuna’s side have taken the lead on six occasions this season but held on for wins just twice after going ahead. They went on to lose twice and draw the rest of the games after taking the lead and the Blasters will need to be careful against Bengaluru in case they do find themselves in front.

Bengaluru record against Kerala Blasters will boost their confidence

Winless in five matches with four losses and a draw is an unusual position for the Blues. However, they will fancy themselves against Kerala – a side that they enjoy a favourable head-to-head record against. Their win over the same opponents back in December meant that Bengaluru have now beaten Kerala Blasters five times in their last seven encounters and have scored 15 goals in the process. Bengaluru’s best display this season was undoubtedly their 4-2 win against the same opponents and a similar performance will boost their confidence and put them back on track for a semi-final spot.