Guwahati, April 18 (NationPress) The reigning champions, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, are set to clash with NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium this Sunday, as they strive to maintain their title pursuit in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26.

NorthEast United FC, currently positioned 11th in the league standings with seven points, will seek to utilize their home ground momentum after managing a gritty 1-1 draw against Kerala Blasters FC. A victory would elevate them to 10 points.

Head coach Juan Pedro Benali has embraced the challenge with a fearless mindset. “What do we have to lose? It’s a match of 11 against 11,” Benali remarked. “We acknowledge Mohun Bagan is among the league's strongest, yet I believe in my players. We feel no pressure and are ready to compete.”

Midfielder Jairo Samperio discussed the physicality of the upcoming match. “Returning from injury is never simple. I’m still regaining my form, but I’ve felt great in recent games. My body is responding well, and the team is geared up for the challenge. It will be a tough battle, but we are motivated and ready,” he stated.

In their quest for the League Shield, Mohun Bagan Super Giant arrives in Guwahati aiming for a crucial win. They recently found their winning touch with a 3-2 victory against Punjab FC, highlighted by a last-minute free-kick from Jason Cummings that secured the points after goals from Jamie Maclaren and Sahal Abdul Samad.

Sitting second in the table with 17 points, a win would push them to 20 points, temporarily placing them ahead of Mumbai City FC, who have 18 points.

Coach Sergio Lobera downplayed any pressure from the title race, seeing it instead as motivation for his team. “It's always an inspiration. With five matches left, we are positioned to strive for our goal, which is to clinch the trophy,” Lobera shared. “We aren’t feeling pressured; we are excited about the chance to earn three vital points against NorthEast United.”

The head-to-head history significantly favors the Mariners. In their 12 past ISL meetings, Mohun Bagan has achieved nine victories, with NorthEast United claiming two wins and one match ending in a draw. The Mariners have outscored the Highlanders 26 to 14 in these encounters, with their latest matchup in December 2024 resulting in a 2-0 away win for Mohun Bagan.

Midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad, fresh off an impressive goal in the last match, expressed his eagerness to contribute further. “I continuously strive in training and believe I can do more for the team,” Samad remarked. “That goal was significant and aided our victory, shifting the momentum. Every upcoming match is crucial for us.”

This weekend’s showdown in Guwahati presents distinct objectives for both teams. For Mohun Bagan Super Giant, securing maximum points is essential to bolster their title challenge and keep pace in a tightly contested race.

Conversely, NorthEast United FC aims to capitalize on their home advantage to rise in the standings and solidify their position in the top half.