ISL 2020-21: NorthEast United FC seals playoffs spot with win over Kerala Blasters FC
This was NorthEast United FC's eighth win of the Indian Super League 2020-21, as with nine draws and three losses, it has risen to the third spot. Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters FC suffered its ninth loss of the season, while with three wins and eight draws, it has finished at tenth.
NorthEast United FC came up with a fascinating performance to tame Kerala Blasters FC 2-0 in the 2020-21 Indian Super League at the Tilak Maidan in Goa on Friday. NEU has sealed its place in the playoffs, having risen to third, while Blasters has finished at tenth.
The opening half saw five attacks until the 20th minute. However, Suhair Vadakkepeedika put NEU ahead 13 minutes later, with his right foot to the bottom-left in a close-range attempt.
It was followed by another attempt from NEU in the 44th minute. Nonetheless, Lalengmawia doubled the lead the very next minute, through his right foot to the top-left from outside, as the side lead at half-time.
The second half saw relatively composed gameplay, with 13 attempts being made, including a save from Blasters goalkeeper Albino Gomes. Nonetheless, either side failed to add anything to the scoreline, as NEU sealed its berth in the playoffs at the full-time whistle.
Although NEU has sealed its playoffs place, it could still finish either on third and fourth. It would all depend on fourth-placed FC Goa's game against fifth-placed Hyderabad FC on Sunday.