ISL 2024-25: NorthEast United FC Aims to Strengthen Away Performance Against Mumbai City
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Mumbai, Dec 29 (NationPress) Mumbai City FC is set to welcome NorthEast United FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the Mumbai Football Arena on Monday. Presently, Mumbai City FC ranks fifth in the standings with 20 points from 12 matches, while NorthEast United FC occupies the sixth position with 18 points from the same number of games.
Entering this encounter, Mumbai City FC has triumphed in three of their last five matches, whereas NorthEast United FC has managed two wins and two losses during this period.
This matchup marks the 21st ISL face-off between these teams, with Mumbai City FC striving to maintain their upper hand against NorthEast United FC. Notably, Mumbai City FC remains unbeaten in their last six ISL clashes with NorthEast United FC (W4 D2), having won the last four encounters consecutively.
The two clubs have adopted somewhat contrasting strategies this season. The Highlanders have netted 26 goals, ranking just behind Bengaluru FC’s 27 and tying with the Mariners in this aspect. In contrast, Mumbai City FC has scored the fourth-fewest goals in the league (15). However, the home side has shown greater defensive reliability, achieving five clean sheets and conceding only 13 goals, compared to NorthEast United FC, who have recorded just two clean sheets and conceded 20 goals.
Mumbai City FC has kept clean sheets in their last four ISL matches, winning three of those games. Securing another clean sheet against NorthEast United FC would see them match their longest streak in ISL history (five matches in November 2014). Their solid defensive setup has been pivotal to their overall strategy this season.
NorthEast United FC has suffered just one loss in their last five away games (W2 D2), scoring multiple goals in four of those matches. They have tallied 12 goals during this stretch, showcasing an improved attacking style on the road.
The Highlanders have the league's highest total of eight goals scored within the first 15 minutes of games this season. However, their defense has shown vulnerabilities, conceding four goals in the same timeframe. Head coach Juan Pedro Benali must ensure his team maintains their shape and structure at the back while pursuing early goals.
Head coach Petr Kratky of Mumbai City FC emphasized the need for his team to consistently adhere to their established processes.
“We need to perform well, defend effectively, and ensure that substitutes contribute positively. It’s crucial to minimize opportunities for our opponents,” Kratky stated.
Meanwhile, Juan Pedro Benali of NorthEast United FC asserted that his squad must remain faithful to their style of play.
“Every match presents unique challenges. This team (Mumbai City FC) possesses a different set of players and playing style. We must concentrate on our strategies, our identity, and our game plan,” Benali remarked.
