NorthEast United FC will look to end their Indian Super League (ISL 12) season on a high when they host Mohammedan SC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium here on Tuesday.
The Highlanders come into the fixture on the back of a dominant 4-1 win over Chennaiyin FC and will aim for a hat-trick of victories to close the season. Mohammedan SC, meanwhile, suffered a 4-0 defeat against Mumbai City FC in their previous outing, a result that confirmed their relegation from the top tier of Indian football.
However, NorthEast United FC’s head coach, Juan Pedro Benali, expressed that his side won’t have it easy against the already relegated visitors and warned against complacency.“We must give our best in the last game because in football, you are only as good as your last game. We need to be focused and play our game. It’s not an easy game by any means. Mohammedan SC has nothing to lose. We need to stay grounded, and if we don’t run and give our best, it will be difficult for us,” he said.
The team captain, Tondonba Singh, echoed the coach’s sentiments, expressing that the team is ready for the last game of the season.
The Highlanders’ backline will once again be led by Tondonba, with Redeem Tlang, Robin Yadav, Dinesh Singh and Mukul Panwar providing options in defence, while Gurmeet Singh is expected to continue between the sticks.
In attack, Spaniard Jairo Samperio will be key after scoring a brace against Chennaiyin FC and playing a decisive role in the win over Inter Kashi FC.
He will be supported by Jithin MS, Parthib Gogoi and Lalrinzuala, all of whom have scored twice this season. Lalbiakdika, who opened his ISL account against Chennaiyin FC, and Thoi Singh will further add to the attacking options.
Veteran Spaniard Andy Rodriguez, the club’s top scorer this campaign with three goals, will look to control proceedings in midfield alongside Macarton Nickson, Mohammed Arshaf, Mayakkannan, Fredy CS and Bekey Oram.
On Tuesday, Juan Pedro Benali’s men will look to carry their momentum one final time, secure a hat-trick of wins, and bring the curtain down on their ISL 12 campaign on a high in front of the Highlanders faithful.
