Get ready for a thrilling clash as NorthEast United FC faces Mohun Bagan SG in an upcoming fixture of the ISL 2023-24. The stage is set for an intriguing battle between two teams with different trajectories in the league so far.
Mohun Bagan SG stands among the unbeaten sides in the league alongside FC Goa and Mumbai City FC. With an impressive record of five wins out of six games, they enter this match as a formidable force. However, NorthEast United FC has struggled, securing just two victories out of their nine matches, desperately seeking a return to winning ways.
Despite Mohun Bagan SG’s strong form, their head coach Juan Ferrando faces suspension following a red card. This absence might potentially affect their sideline guidance, pending the outcome of the team’s appeal against the decision.
Quotes from the Team Camps:
NorthEast United FC coach acknowledged the strength of Mohun Bagan SG but highlighted the potential of his opponents, emphasizing their clear and organized style of play: “They are a very good team, much more organized than some of the ISL teams with a very good coach and a very clear style of play.”
Addressing the absence of their head coach due to the red card suspension, NorthEast United FC remains vigilant, hoping for a successful appeal: “He prepares the team, does all the planning. His absence on the bench might be a setback, but the team is prepared.”
Previous Performance and AFC Cup Exit:
Mohun Bagan SG’s unbeaten run in the league contrasts with their inability to progress past the group stages in the AFC Cup. The team had reached the Inter-Zone Semi-final in the previous edition.
Discussing the AFC Cup exit, the team’s representative mentioned the natural trajectory of a season, stating: “In a long season, there’s always a trajectory where the team slides down. This is normal in football. We are not machines.”
Match Prediction: NorthEast United FC 2 – 1 Mohun Bagan SG
Despite Mohun Bagan SG’s commendable run, we predict a surprising 2-1 victory for NorthEast United FC in this encounter. The determined nature of the NorthEast side and the potential absence of Mohun Bagan SG’s head coach might contribute to this unexpected turn. Football is unpredictable, but if NorthEast United FC maintains their recent performance, they might secure a crucial win.