Northeast United will return to action to play a vital semi-final fixture against their neighbours ATK Mohun Bagan at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim.
Blast from the past:
Back in January, Luis Machado and Federico Gallego ensured all three points for Northeast United as they edged past the Mariners in a 2-1 victory with Roy Krishna scoring for the Mariners.
Northeast United FC:
Northeast United have confirmed their second play-off appearance ever since their existence as they finsihed third on the table in a season that showed them different colours. They come into this game following a 2-0 victory against Kerala Blasters, a game that saw a dominant display from the Highlanders. They have the most number of goal scorers this season (11) which is a club record and also have a netted the third highest number of goals (31), thanks to their in-form forward line. The Highlanders extended their unbeaten run to 10 matches and will be looking to build of the newly found and much needed confidence to script history under Khalid Jamil.
“They are good individually and as a team also they are good. We need to start positive and not take this match lightly, it is a very serious and difficult game and we have to fight for everything. They are a good side, defensively strong, attacking also strong and we have to be very careful because first match is very important,” said Coach Khalid Jamil at the pre-match press conference.
ATK Mohun Bagan:
The Mariners lost out to Mumbai City FC for the League title just a few days back and they come into this game after a 2-0 defeat against the Islanders. Their backline is becoming more and more vulnerable but still hold the record for letting in least number of goals (15) but they have failed to keep shutout in their last 3 outings. The Mariners’ dip in form in the final league games didn’t just cost them the league title but even a chance to represent India at the AFC Champions League. They approach the game in an ultra defensive manner and play of counter attacks, a style which has costed them a few occasions. The Hero ISL debutants will be looking to bring a change in their fortunes against the Highlanders.
“NorthEast United have had a good ISL season. It’s a very difficult team because they have good players in defence, central midfield and good players in attack. They also had good performances and give 100 per cent on the pitch,” said Habas.
Players to watch out for:
Federico Gallego (Northeast United FC)
The Uruguayan lynchpin has been sensation for scripting Northeast United’s turnaround. He has the most number of goal contributions in the Highlanders’ camp (10), 4 goals and 6 assists. His superpower to deliver the ball at the right time at the right place has been an added advantage for side and he will be looking to build up on that.
Arindam Bhattacharjee (ATK Mohun Bagan)
The Shot stopper has been the silver lining to his side’s defense. He sits are the first position in the golden glove race having kept 10 clean sheets so far. His performance against the Highlanders will surely reflect on the scoresheet.
Probable Starting XI:
Northeast United FC (4-3-3): Subhasish (GK), Ashutosh, Lambot, Mashoor, Gurjinder, Camara, Lalengmawia, Gallego, Machado Deshorn, Suhair.
ATK Mohun Bagan (4-4-2): Arindam (GK), Bose, Tiri, Pritam, Prabir, McHugh, Pranay, Javi, Willaims, Jayesh, Krishna.