The Indian Super League is heating up and both Kerala Blasters and Chennaiyin FC will be looking to gain some momentum as they aim for a top four finish heading into the playoffs.

The Blasters have been in splendid form off late as they are unbeaten in the last five matches and will be looking to beat the Super Machans in their latest encounter.

Ahead of the big game against Thomas Brdaric’s men, Kerala Blasters coach Ivan Vukomanovic shared his thoughts on the game and also on his team’s performance till now. He highlighted how a good start to the season has helped the Blasters accumulate many points as we head towards the midway of the current season.

The Serbian tactician shared how these high voltage games will help the players and toughen their mentality and help in development.

“We would like actually to have these kinds of situations that you can live those last moments of the game at ease. There is a big judgment of character and mentality and then when you do all those things, there are things that you have to deal with, as you say at the end of the game, actually fighting for the points, fighting spirit, character, you know, not allowing your opponents to score the goal, ” Vukomanovic stated at the pre match press conference.

He then spoke about the rivalry between the Blasters and other South Indian outfits like Bengaluru and Chennaiyin. Although he shared that the preparation as a coach is mostly the same the rivalry makes it spicy for the fans and the players as they like to play in front of big crowds.

My only experience with them was from last season. So, I think that both teams, had facelifting changes and they look different than last season. I think that both of the teams are very good. They have players that can make difference individually, and collectively. So, now from a coaching point, you prepare your games like every other game, there is a process, there are things in the microcycle that you’re doing during the week, ” Vukomanovic explained.

“The rivalry makes it more spicy. So the fans, the players, they like playing those games because as a player, you dream about playing those big games in front of big crowds and this is something special. So for us, we know that it means a lot to everybody in Kerala, so we’ll try to do our best and make a positive out of it, ” He continued highlighting the rivalry side of things around these matches.

Adnasser El Khayati has been undoubtedly one of the trail blazers in the ISL among new signings. Coming from the Dutch League, the forward has had an instant impact for Marina Machans. He has already registered seven goals along with four assists and is in red hot form.

While Vukomanovic knows and respect the quality that El Khayati will be bringing to the table. He is wary of the entire team and not only a certain player. He feels that they should work collectively to find flaws in their opponents to capitalize and earn all three points.

“He’s a good player coming from the European side having that experience from a European league. One of the most important leagues in Europe, the Dutch league and actually him bringing something extra in this league is nice seeing him playing like that and contributing extra things to his team. It’s always nice to see good players in Hero ISL but it’s not only about him, it’s about the whole team how you want to use their weak points, and how you want to block their strong sides, ” Vukomanovic signed off.

Kerala Blasters are sixth in the ISL standings whereas Chennaiyin FC are seventh. However the Blasters have a five point advantage over Chennaiyin. But still this match will be important given that both teams want to finish as high as possible.