Blaster have been a transformed lot under Westwood.
| Photo Credit: THULASI KAKKAT
Kerala Blasters will look for a strong finish against FC Goa in their final match of ISL 2025-26 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Monday.
After a dismal start to the campaign, Blasters turned things around under new coach Ashley Westwood and are unbeaten in their last five matches.
But with no further chance of improving the standings, Blasters will look to preserve their eighth position. However, the Yellow Brigade, 14 points from 12 matches, have an arduous task at hand against Goa.
They need to beat Goa to prevent the ninth-placed NorthEast United (13 points from 12 matches) from overtaking them in the last round. The Highlanders have a relatively easy match against the relegated Mohammedan Sporting FC in their last round.
Goa dropped points at home to Mohun Bagan Super Giant, which hampered its chances of a top-three finish. The seventh-placed Goa (20 points from 12 games) will will come down hard at the host in pursuit of a win.
Blasters have a poor overall record against the Gaurs. They will have to be at the top of their game and it was echoed by Westwood in the pre-match media briefing.
“They are a top-ranked side and have some very good Indian national players and experienced foreign players We have to go out and give our best and try to win the match,” he said.
Blasters owed their last win to Kevin Yoke who was a revelation on the right flank. However, against a strong Goan side Kevin will need more support from his teammates for the host to end the season on a high note.
Published – May 17, 2026 06:32 pm IST
