Kerala Blasters FC end their home campaign with a vital match against FC Pune City at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi. A win for either side could see them go through to the semi-finals if either (or both) Delhi Dynamos FC or Atlético de Kolkata drop points against Chennaiyin FC and FC Goa, respectively. A draw between the two sides would make qualification less likely, and give Mumbai City FC and NorthEast United FC added hope of making the semi-finals. It is a must-win for both teams, and thus promises to be an enthralling encounter.Goal scoring for the Kerala Blasters has been a major issue all tournament long. They have managed to put the ball at the back of the net just eight times, with Pune having scored four more. Nigerian striker Dudu Omagbemi’s promotion to the starting lineup has made Pune a much more dangerous attacking threat. With more shots (167-150) and shots on target (84-73), the away side look the stronger of the two in attack. They will be banking on this offensive stability to get past David James’ men. However, Kerala have one of the best defences in the league, having conceded just 11 goals, joint-lowest with Goa.Pune have a strong defence as well, and they in fact lead Kerala in other defensive metrics. The team has managed more interceptions (327-321), blocks (98-77) and tackles (232-226) than the hosts. Bruno Cirillo will want his team to continue in the same way for the final game.Form Guide (most recent matches first) Kerala Blasters: DLLWWPune City: LWDLLGurwinder Singh vs Dudu Omagbemi The Indian defender relies on his physicality and tackling ability in the heart of the defence. He will have a crucial role facing a physical forward like Dudu. Singh is strong in the air, as well, and his presence will be important especially for set-pieces. Dudu will want to get back to scoring ways after he was unable to help his side avoid defeat against the Delhi Dynamos. A good header of the ball, the Nigerian will look to get ahead of the defence and help his team to some goals.Iain Hume vs Bruno CirilloThe Canadian forward has had a strong ISL campaign so far. He is a vital player for Kerala Blasters and his presence in the team improves their game play. With a never-say-die attitude, Hume chases every ball down and always makes himself available to receive a pass. His tenacious mentality will be important when facing the Italian defender. Cirillo is a strong central defender who is capable of putting in crunching tackles to stop attackers from passing him. He’s been a central figure in Pune City’s campaign. He will look to do the job one more time and keep Hume away from his goal.Mehtab Hossain vs Kostas KatsouranisHossain was one of the top performers for Kerala before injury cut his season short. He’s back from injury now and has slotted right back into the side. A burly midfielder, Hossain has the ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute play effectively for his team. He will have a task on his hands when defending against Katsouranis, who has been the top player for the Pune team. The only player in the league to have played in this year’s World Cup in Brazil, Katsouranis has showed his quality on the ball time and again. He will look to continue his good run of form against Kerala.Players to watchKerala Blasters FCStephen Pearson – The Scot has been another vital figure for David James. He makes bombing runs forward from the middle of the park and can cross the ball well. Having played in England, Pearson brings a lot of experience to this team and he will look to use this experience to help his team get the important win.FC Pune CityKrisztián Vadócz – The Hungarian came into the team late as a replacement for the injured John Goossens. He has done remarkably well in his short time in the competition so far. A typical box-to-box midfielder, Vadócz links the defence to the attack well. This ability will be of use against Kerala’s strong midfield.Team speakKerala Blasters FCDavid James (player-head coach): “We have only one defeat at home, and this is what gives us confidence going into tomorrow’s game.”FC Pune CityFranco Colomba (head coach): “I believe that our chances are not quite over just yet.”