NEUFC face Mumbai City FC on Sunday

Online staff/GUWAHATI, Feb 28: NorthEast United FC will look to register their first victory of the Indian Super League 2025-26 when they take on Mumbai City FC at the Mumbai Football Arena on Sunday evening.
The Highlanders head into the fixture on the back of a morale-boosting 1-1 draw against Bengaluru FC away from home, a performance that reflected the hunger and fight demanded by head coach Juan Pedro Benali. Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC secured a 1-0 win over Kerala Blasters FC in their previous outing.
Summer signing Lalrinzuala opened his ISL account with a stunning strike against Bengaluru FC, a goal that announced his arrival on the big stage. However, Benali was quick to strike a measured tone, urging patience and perspective around the forward.
“Let’s not think about the past. Lalrinzuala was very good in the I-League, being the top scorer in the last two seasons, but he’s just starting in the ISL. If we are calling him the best striker in history after scoring one goal, we’re not helping the boy. We need to let him grow in the ISL,” Benali said.
“We need to give him that confidence and not let him think that the job is done. That’s why people who are clapping today will be disappointed if he doesn’t score tomorrow. We must stay humble, keep our feet on the ground, and work harder. I am really happy for Lalrinzuala and the team, but let the boy grow. Don’t kill him with fame,” he added.
Alongside Lalrinzuala, the Highlanders’ attacking unit features India international Jithin MS, India U-23 internationals Parthib Gogoi, Thoi Singh and Danny Laishram, along with Lalbiakdika, providing the side pace, movement and directness in the final third.
In midfield, Macarton Nickson, Mayakkannan and Spaniard Andy Rodriguez will look to dictate tempo and provide balance. Gurmeet is expected to continue as the last line of defence, shielded by Captain Michel Zabaco, Asheer Akhtar, Dinesh Singh, Redeem Tlang, Bekey Oram, Buanthanglun Samte and Tondonba Singh.
Asheer Akhtar, who provided the assist for Lalrinzuala’s goal in Bengaluru, praised the forward’s work ethic while also highlighting the importance of experience at the back.
“Michel has played at a high level in Spain, and he brings all his experience to the fore. In my career, I’ve played the maximum number of games with him next to me; we always look to help each other, have a good understanding between us, and we do our best for the team,” Akhtar said.
After showing resilience on the road last week, the Highlanders now seek to turn promise into three points. Against a Mumbai City FC side, Benali’s men will once again rely on their spirit, heart, and fight to bring home all three points.