ISL 2024-25: NorthEast United FC to Challenge Counter-Attack Specialists Mohun Bagan Super Giant
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Guwahati, Dec 7 (NationPress) NorthEast United FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant are preparing to face each other at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati for the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 this Sunday.
The Highlanders will seek to capitalize on their recent home success to restore their winning streak, while the Mariners aim to preserve their impressive record in this matchup and maintain their position in the upper half of the table.
This match will be significant for Subhasish Bose of Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who is on the brink of achieving 100 ISL appearances for the Mariners. His leadership and experience are critical as his team strives to keep their excellent form against the Highlanders.
Recently, NorthEast United FC has proven to be a tough opponent at home, claiming victory in four out of their last six matches (W4 D1 L1). Their recent performances at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium included a 5-0 triumph over Jamshedpur FC and a narrow 3-2 win against Odisha FC. With eight goals scored in their last two home fixtures, the Highlanders are eager to maintain their impressive attacking prowess.
The Highlanders have been formidable in open play, netting a league-high 18 goals this season. Striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie has played a pivotal role in their offense, recording four matches this season with five or more shots attempted — the highest of any player. He will aim to spearhead the attack and put pressure on the Mariners’ defense.
The Mariners have consistently scored at least three goals in their last three ISL encounters against NorthEast United FC, equaling their record for consecutive games scoring 3+ goals against a single opponent (also achieved against Jamshedpur FC and East Bengal FC). Liston Colaco has been particularly troublesome for the Highlanders, netting eight goals against them — the third-highest tally for any Indian player against a single ISL opponent.
Known for their intense pressing, Mohun Bagan Super Giant ranks among the league's top teams, allowing only 10.9 passes per defensive action (PPDA) — the second-best in the ISL, just behind Kerala Blasters FC. This high pressing could disrupt the Highlanders’ build-up play, which is essential to neutralize their offensive threats.
Historically, Mohun Bagan Super Giant has dominated this matchup, winning eight out of the 11 ISL encounters (W8 D1 L2) against NorthEast United FC. They have scored a remarkable 24 goals in 11 matches against the Highlanders, compared to the Highlanders’ 14.
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali of NorthEast United FC commended the strengths of the Mariners and acknowledged that his team is well aware of their capabilities.
“We know Mohun Bagan Super Giant very well. We even faced them in the Durand Cup final. They are a formidable team with a solid defense and are always ready to counter-attack,” said Benali.
On the other hand, Jose Molina, head coach of Mohun Bagan Super Giant, stated that he does not tailor strategies for individual players but focuses on the team as a whole.
“We are up against a competitive team. They have pivotal players who can influence the game, but our plans are designed for the entire team. Our goal is to win the match,” Molina commented.
