Our Sports Reporter
SHILLONG: NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) is gearing up for an intense showdown against Jamshedpur FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) Playoff Knockout 2 match at the JN Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.
NEUFC enters the playoff with a strong record against Jamshedpur, having completed a league double over them. The Highlanders triumphed 5-0 at home and secured a gritty 2-0 win away. Despite both teams finishing the league campaign with 38 points from 24 matches, NEUFC has the edge heading into the playoffs thanks to their superior head-to-head record, granting them the home advantage.
However, NEUFC head coach Juan Pedro Benali made it clear that the past results hold a little significance for this crucial encounter. “The past has nothing to do with it. This is a knock out. game,” he said.
He stressed the importance of staying focused: “There’s no room for complacency. We need to play with confidence, stick to our game plan, and stop the opposition. If we do that, success will follow.”
The Highlanders have been in formidable form, particularly in attack. With 46 goals in the league, they’ve come just one goal short of Mohun Bagan SG’s record tally of 47. Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie has been a revelation, netting 23 goals in the campaign.
At the back, NEUFC’s defense has been rock-solid. led by captain Michel Zabaco, the defensive unit, which includes local talent Redeem Tlang, Asheer Akhtar, Dinesh Singh, Tondonba Singh, and Buanthanglun Samte, has kept eight clean sheets throughout the season, showcasing their resilience.
Zabaco, reflecting on the upcoming match, said, “It’s going to be a tough game. Jamshedpur has their own style of play, but we also have our own. If we want to reach the semifinals, we need to play as a team, work hard, and I believe we’ll come out on top.”
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