Indian Super League: NorthEast United FC aim to extend unbeaten run against Punjab FC

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: NorthEast United FC aim to extend their unbeaten streak to four matches when they will face Punjab FC in their next home match in the Indian Super League at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium here on Friday. The match will kick off at 7-30 PM.

NorthEast United secured their second consecutive clean sheet against Mohammedan SC, following their impressive 3-0 away victory over Mumbai City FC. Currently sixth in the ISL table with 22 points from 14 games, the Highlanders seek maximum points at home.  Punjab FC are in eighth place in the table with 18 points.

A key factor in NorthEast United’s recent success has been the exceptional form of goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh. In his last two outings, he made five crucial saves, demonstrating his unwavering presence between the posts. The defensive line, anchored by captain Michel Zabaco and Asheer Akhtar, has been a formidable force, effectively supported by full-backs Redeem Tlang and Buanthanglun Samte.

NorthEast United FC Juan Pedro Benali heaped praise on Redeem Tlang, who has played at right back in the last two games. “Redeem is a very good player and a great person with a lot of experience. He’s a fast, tactically intelligent player and we thought about trying him (at right back). It worked and we hope it continues to work. Of course, he’s learning about some aspects of being a fullback but he’s done excellent so far,” he said.

It will the fourth occasions when both the sides will face each other in ISL. In previous encounter NEUFC and Punjab FC won one match each and the other game ended as a draw.

Meanwhile Punjab FC’s bench has stepped up this season, with substitutes scoring winners in two games, which is the joint-most by any team. They will hope for a similar impact in their next game. It will also keep the Highlanders aware of not dropping their guards anytime since introduction of fresh legs have helped the visitors derive constructive outcomes by adding a newer element to their gameplay. Overall, Punjab FC have had six goals contributions coming from their substitutes.

Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis admitted that his team needs certain improvements after their recent results. “When a team is not having the results, it’s because we need to develop parts of our gameplay. There are reasons but I’m not going to stay on the excuses and instead improve ourselves,” he said.

Also Read: "We deserved to win": NorthEast United Coach Benali reflects on triumph over Mumbai City FC

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