NEUFC take on Mumbai FC in ISL today at Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: NorthEast United (NEUFC) will look to consolidate their position in the top half of the Hero Indian Super League table when they will take on Mumbai City FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium here on Wednesday. The match will kick off at 7-30 in the evening.

The Highlanders have started this season in style as they are one of the three sides yet to face a defeat. Coach Robert Jarni seems to have struck a chord with the players and the results are evident with the club amassing eight points from four matches and are now placed in fourth positions in the points table.

The Croatian would be pleased with the form of Redeem Tlang who has been exceptional with two goals to his name. Star striker Asamoah Gyan should make it into the match day squad after picking up an injury before the international break.

However there is a concern for Jarni as his central defender Kai Heerings will not be available in this game because of suspension following his involvement in an on-field tussle against FC Goa during their last home game. .

The assistant coach of home outfit Khalid Jamil was quick to point out today that NorthEast would be playing to their strengths against a strong Mumbai outfit.

“Three points against Mumbai is very important. There are no injuries, but Kai will be missing. We will play like we usually do, and we are up against a very good team. So, we can’t take them lightly,” said Jamil.

He also felt that striker, Asamoah Gyan’s experience was vital for the development of the youngsters in his squad. “The motivation is definitely there playing with Gyan. He is a quality player and had played in the World Cup.” Gyan is expected to return into the ground tomorrow after recovering from injury.

Mumbai City FC will be pleased to welcome most of their players who were injured. Rowllin Borges, Modou Sougou and Mato Grgic are back in the squad which will give coach Jorge Costa some relief ahead of a must-win match.

Although Mumbai FC is struggling in the competition and just managed to earn four points from their four previous outings but coach feels his team is capable to turn the table.

Talking to the media persons during the pre match press conference here on Tuesday Jorge Costa said, ”We had the same points tally after four games in the last season but thereafter we played good soccer. Hope team will response in similar way this time also.”

He also added:”The conditions in Guwahati is perfect for my players. In Mumbai, it is too hot and too much humidity, but then again, we have to be prepared to play under all circumstances. But if you ask me I prefer to have this kind of weather.”

Also Read: North East United FC (NEUFC) to take on FC Goa in ISL

Also Watch: Leopard enters house in Assam-Meghalaya Border, sparks panic among public