NorthEast United FC has been on a remarkable journey led by their Spanish strategist, Juan Pedro Benali. After enduring a series of losses and winless spells in previous seasons, the club, which represents eight states of India, is now experiencing a thrilling phase of progress deep into the Durand Cup.
Their passage to the knockout stages of the tournament was secured as the top second-placed team, surpassing Mohun Bagan SG. NEUFC displayed dominance in the group stages, securing convincing victories against Shillong Lajong and Downtown Heroes. Their performance against the formidable FC Goa ended in a draw, placing them in the second spot, just behind FC Goa on goal difference. The quarterfinal clash against the Indian Army team saw NEUFC secure a comfortable victory, securing their spot in the semifinals.
East Bengal has made a triumphant return, led by their former ISL-winning coach, Carles Caudrat. They topped their group, surpassing defending Hero ISL champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and marked their resurgence with a memorable victory in the Kolkata derby after a substantial period. The team also defeated Punjab FC and played out an intense draw against the Bangladesh Army in a high-scoring encounter.
In the quarterfinals, the Red and Gold brigade displayed their mettle by defeating the former I-League and Durand Cup champions, Gokulam Kerala FC. With their place secured in the semifinals, East Bengal is now inching closer to Durand Cup glory.
The forthcoming match promises a captivating midfield duel between two formidable teams. NorthEast United boasts a lineup featuring players like Romain Philippoteaux, Phalguni Singh, Pragyan Gogoi, and the dynamic forward Parthib Gogoi, who has been a standout performer with four goals in the campaign, including a memorable hat-trick against Shillong Lajong.
On the flip side, East Bengal’s midfield is anchored by the Spanish duo of Saul Crespo and Borja Herrera, supported by talents like Souvik Chakrabarti, Naorem Mahesh, Nandhakumar Sekar, and Suhair VP, forming a potent threat for the Highlanders.
Predicted Starting Line-ups
NorthEast United FC XI: Mirshad (GK), Dinesh Singh, Tondomba Singh, Miguel Zabaco, Gourav Bora, Phalguni Singh, Pragyan Gogoi, Romain Philippoteaux, Parthib Gogoi, Redeem Tlang, Jithin MS, Ibson Melo
East Bengal FC XI: Prabhsukhan Gill (GK), Nishu Kumar, Jordan Elsey, Lalchungnunga, Harmanjot Khabra, Saul Crespo, Souvik Chakrabarti, Borja Herrera, Nandha Kumar, Naorem Mahesh, Javier Siverio
