Published on Oct 29:
GUWAHATI: History may favour Bengaluru FC, but NorthEast United FC will be determined to give a good show when the two sides meet in the Indian Super League (ISL) match at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium here on Friday. The match will kick off at 7.30 pm.
Despite Bengaluru's dominance in previous meetings, the Highlanders will look to draw confidence from their strong start to the current campaign as they prepare for their third home game of the season.
NorthEast United have collected seven points from their opening three matches to sit at the top of the league table. Bengaluru, meanwhile, occupy fourth place with six points from two matches and have a game in hand.
Ahead of the crucial encounter, NorthEast United head coach Juan Pedro Benali acknowledged the quality of the opposition, describing Bengaluru as a tactically strong side with talented players and an experienced coach.
“Bengaluru are tactically strong and have some very good players. They also have a good coach who knows exactly what he is doing. It will not be easy,” Benali said.
The Highlanders will need to remain disciplined at both ends of the pitch, with Benali stressing the importance of concentration and execution in key moments. Breaking down Bengaluru's defensive structure while keeping their attacking threats in check will be among the major challenges for the home side.
Benali also expressed confidence in Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie, who missed a late penalty in NorthEast United's previous match against Odisha FC. The coach backed the striker to continue taking penalties, emphasising that missed opportunities are part of football and do not diminish his faith in the player.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh will be an important figure for the Highlanders as they seek to maintain their unbeaten start. Having kept two clean sheets in three matches, Gurmeet has provided stability at the back and will be eager to continue his impressive form against Bengaluru.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Thursday, Gurmeet acknowledged the challenge but expressed confidence in his team's abilities.
“They are a good side, of course, but we are confident in our own qualities. As the coach said, it will be a good game for the fans, and I think we are ready for the challenge,” he said.
The head-to-head record underlines the challenge facing NorthEast United. In 19 previous meetings, Bengaluru FC have won nine matches, while the Highlanders have managed just two victories. Eight encounters have ended in draws.
PHOTO CAPTION: NEUFC Head coach Benali and goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh during the media conference.