ISL 2024-25: NorthEast United and Bengaluru FC Clash for Vital Points
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Synopsis
NorthEast United FC and Bengaluru FC are gearing up for a pivotal clash in the ISL 2024-25. This match takes place at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and holds significant playoff implications for both teams, with NorthEast United currently fourth and Bengaluru FC close behind in sixth.
Key Takeaways
- NorthEast United FC aims to defend their home record.
- Bengaluru FC seeks to end their winless streak on the road.
- Both teams are in contention for playoff spots.
- Sunil Chhetri leads Bengaluru's scoring efforts.
- Defensive strategies will be crucial for both sides.
Shillong, Feb 20 (NationPress) NorthEast United FC is preparing to welcome Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium this Friday. This match marks the return of the ISL to the Meghalaya capital since the inaugural league match between the Highlanders and Mumbai City FC earlier this month.
The Bengaluru FC team has not tasted victory in their last four away games, suffering two consecutive losses. Nevertheless, the Blues have had a commendable season in terms of scoring, racking up 36 goals, which is their second-highest total in ISL history. Sunil Chhetri is leading the scoring charts for the team with 11 goals. The Blues will be encouraged by the fact that NorthEast United FC has not defeated them in their last five encounters. The teams have shared three consecutive draws, and another tie would mean the Highlanders have managed four straight draws against a single opponent in the ISL.
NorthEast United is also keen to maintain their strong home record, having last lost 0-2 at home to Mumbai City FC. The last time they faced consecutive home losses in a single season was in February 2023. Additionally, the Blues have consistently found the net against the Highlanders on the road, scoring eight goals in six matches, and a goal in this match would extend their streak against any opponent.
Both teams are in the race for a playoff berth, with NorthEast United FC sitting fourth with 32 points from 21 matches, while Bengaluru FC is sixth with 31 points from 20 games. The competition is tight, with only three points separating the Highlanders from Odisha FC in seventh place with 29 points.
The Highlanders have netted the third-most goals in the ISL 2024-25 season, totaling 39, with over half of these goals credited to Alaaeddine Ajaraie. In their last five matches, NorthEast United FC has scored eight goals but went scoreless in two games. Jithin M.S. is on the verge of making history as he needs just one more goal contribution to become the fourth player to achieve 15+ contributions for NorthEast United FC.
Bengaluru FC has achieved six clean sheets this season, ranking third among all teams, although they have managed only one shutout in their last 15 ISL matches.
The Blues have surpassed their expected goals (XG) by 13.54, showcasing the impressive efficiency of their attacking unit. The two teams have faced each other 17 times in the league, with NorthEast United FC claiming victory twice, while Bengaluru FC has won eight times and seven matches ended in draws.
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali of NorthEast United FC urged his team to defend as a unit in the upcoming match, emphasizing the need to be vigilant against a formidable opponent. “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 that,” he stated.
On the other hand, Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza acknowledged his team’s struggles last month but is optimistic after their recent 3-0 victory against Jamshedpur FC. “We were not doing well in January, and we were not consistent. We improved our performance in the last game though. We kept a clean sheet and that should be the way we need to play to reach the playoffs,” he remarked.
