Shillong, February 21 (IANS): NorthEast United FC is set to host Bengaluru FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here tonight, marking another exciting clash in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.
The match, kicking off at 7:30 PM IST, will be pivotal for both teams as they continue their push for playoff qualification. NorthEast United currently sits fourth on the table with 32 points from 21 matches, just one point above Bengaluru FC, who have gathered 31 points from 20 matchups.
Bengaluru FC enters the game with some mixed results. Despite struggling on the road—with four consecutive games without victory and two losses— they possess a potent attack, having netted 36 goals this season, the second-highest tally in their ISL history. Sunil Chhetri, Bengaluru's talisman, has been instrumental with 11 goals to his name, leading the goal charts once again.
On the other hand, NorthEast United has not triumphed against Bengaluru FC in their last five encounters, with three draws and two losses. This record adds pressure on the Highlanders as they aim to defend their home turf, especially following their last defeat at home—a 0-2 loss to Mumbai City FC earlier this season.
Both teams have shown they can score, with NorthEast United netting the third-most goals this season at 39. Their offense is heavily reliant on Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie, who has struck the net with remarkable frequency, showing the league's best scoring rate and contributing significantly to the team’s successes.
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali acknowledged the importance of collective defense against the Blues, stating, "The whole team needs to defend well because we are playing against a strong side. All of their players are dangerous and we need to take care of them.”
Gerard Zaragoza, the Bengaluru FC head coach, echoed similar sentiments about his squad's need for consistency after their recent 3-0 victory against Jamshedpur FC. He remarked, “We were not doing well in January, but keeping a clean sheet last game should guide us on the pathway to the playoffs.”
Statistically, Bengaluru has never failed to score against NorthEast on their grounds, netting eight goals across six matches. A goal today would mark their longest streak against any opponent without failing to score. NorthEast United, preparing to flip the script, must capitalize on their home advantage, rallied by the support of their fans.
Fans are encouraged to fill the stadium and create the kind of atmosphere only the northeast can provide. Benali also called on them to intensify the home ground pressure, indicating, "Come to the stadium and support us as the first player of NorthEast United FC. Let Bengaluru FC feel the pressure of playing here."
Tonight's match not only serves as significant in terms of points but also as psychological warfare as each side aims to consolidate its position for playoff advancement. With only three points separating NorthEast from seventh-placed Odisha FC, every point will count.
Considering both teams' current standings and forms, this match promises to be one brimming with excitement, strategy, and plenty on the line for the Highlanders and the Blues.
Fans tuning in should look forward to what could very well define the playoff picture for the ISL this season. The Indian Super League continues to showcase thrilling action, and tonight's game is poised to deliver exactly what the fans crave!