Benali urges Highlanders to stay grounded as Westwood prepares for tactical test in the hills
Guwahati: NorthEast United FC and Kerala Blasters FC will lock horns in a highly anticipated Gameweek 2 clash of the MG Indian Super League, at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, in Guwahati, on Sunday. Both sides come into the fixture on the back of wins, with the hosts having pulled off a late heist in a 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Elsewhere, Ashley Westwood’s Kerala Blasters secured a convincing 2-0 win over Inter Kashi at the Balewadi Stadium.
Juan Pedro Benali acknowledged the balance in Westwood’s squad, as he urged his players to stay grounded ahead of a fixture that will be key to both sides and their attempts to gain momentum. “It’s like a game of chess. Ashley is a very good coach, talented and smart. These are the first steps of a long marathon. We need to stay focused, be humble, down to earth, work more and try not to make mistakes,” said Benali, speaking to the press on the eve of the game. While he acknowledged his side’s performance in the opener, the Highlanders’ boss was clear that his side cannot rest on past laurels.
Westwood, meanwhile, highlighted NorthEast’s tactical flexibility in their opening victory and expects his side to remain organised and find ways to counter the hosts’ approach. However, he admitted that Kerala are still some way from reaching their desired style of play, citing limited preparation time and the need for more training and match experience.
“We didn't really have a good game at the back (against Inter Kashi), but we kept a clean sheet so it was a good start of the season. We're trying to improve because new players have come in and we're trying to help each other at the back,” said Westwood, ahead of the fixture.
The Blasters will be keen to build on their win against Inter Kashi, with Westwood’s side scheduled to return to their home ground for the first time this season the following week, in a clash against Mumbai City FC.
Kicks off between the Highlanders and the Blasters is scheduled at 7:30 PM IST on Sunday, October 18. Fans can watch the action live on the MG ISL YouTube channel and SonyLIV.
