Kerala Blasters' Coach Calls for Improved Finishing After Draw with NorthEast United

Kerala Blasters FC head coach Mikael Stahre emphasized the need for better finishing following a 1-1 draw with NorthEast United FC. The Blasters scored an equalizer but struggled to capitalize on opportunities against a 10-man opponent. Stahre expressed a mix of satisfaction and dissatisfaction with the team's performance.

Kerala Blasters FC head coach Mikael Stahre emphasized his team's need for improved finishing in a post-match press conference after a 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday. Alaeddine Ajaraie of NorthEast United broke the deadlock in the 58th minute with a precise free-kick, making him the second player to score in his first three consecutive games.

The Blasters quickly reacted as Noah Sadaoui netted an equalizer just nine minutes later, with a remarkable left-footed strike from the edge of the box. However, despite gaining a numerical advantage following NorthEast United's Asheer Akhtar's red card, the Blasters failed to convert several late-game opportunities. Stahre expressed frustration over the missed chances, urging his players to be more clinical in the final third.

Reflecting on the match, Stahre acknowledged mixed feelings, stating, 'In one way, I am pleased with the point; in another way, I did not like how we controlled the last part after the red card.' Stahre believes the team is on the right track and expects better performances moving forward, accentuating the importance of recently returned player Adrian Luna, who came on as a substitute in the 80th minute.

(With inputs from agencies.)