Here it is! Matchday 2 will see the Highlanders take on the Islanders in what promises to be a mouth watering contest. It’s not just gonna be Northeast United vs Mumbai City.
It’s also gonna be Federico Gallego vs Bartholomew Ogbeche, the latter was phenomenal during his time at the Highlands courtesy of the Uruguayan magician Federico Gallego.
Blast from the past :
The last time around when these teams met, it was Jorge Costa’s side who emerged as the winners at the Mumbai Football arena. The islanders took home all three points with a 1-0 victory over the Highlanders.
Northeast United FC :
The season 2019-20 was surely a one to forget for Northeast United FC as they injuries spoiled their party even after a great start to their campaign. It surely seems the Highlanders have tried to cover all the spaces with the brand new additions they have brought it.
Northeast United Fc are on a 14 match winless run and will be looking to change that in their 99th Hero ISL appearance under New head coach Gerard Nus.
“First of all we want to be competitive. No matter what the result is but we need to fight until the end and should be our identity. We want to dictate the game. In my opinion we need to be a team that fights and fights and fights without giving up and should be proud of our performance.” said Gerard Nus
Mumbai City FC :
The Islanders closely missed out on a top 4 finish last season and have covered all the areas in a ‘too good’ manner. Sergio Lobera has made a great side all together. Hugo Boumous made a big money move to Mumbai City FC and too add more pressure to the opposition defenders, the club has brought in Adam Le fondre and Bartholomew Ogbeche.
The City football group owned outfit looks ready to hit the ground running.
“NEUFC have some problems, but all teams have problems. I’ve managed to train with my full squad only on a few days, but we don’t want to complain. We need to prepare and compete well in the first game.” Sergio Lobera added.
Battles to watch out for :
Federico Gallego vs Bartholomew Ogbeche :
Northeast United had a dream season in 2018-19. Bartholomew Ogbeche and Federico Gallego formed one of the most deadliest duos that season. The following season Bart moved to Kerala Blasters but Gallego continued with Northeast. Now, Bartholomew Ogbeche has joined Mumbai City FC and it will be interesting to see how they play against each other tonight.
Adam Le fondre vs Benjamin Lambot :
The English target man had a great season in Australia’s top division last season, he comes in with loads and loads of experience under his belt and the Islanders will hope that their man delivers. On the other hand, Northeast United FC’s Belgian stalwart Benjamin Lambot is a player who has played top division european football for most of his career. His experience and ability to control the game will surely play an evident role for the Highlanders.
Probable Starting XI :
Northeast United FC : Subhashish, Ashutosh, Fox, Lambot, Lalengmawia, Camara, Gallego, Ninthoi, VP Suhair, Appiah.
Mumbai City FC : Amrinder, Rakip, Mandar, Fall, Sarthak, Jahouh, Hugo, Borges, Farukh, Ogbeche, Le fondre.