Panaji: Mohun Bagan Super Giant will play against NorthEast United FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata tonight. After a draw with Mumbai City FC in their first match, the Mariners are eager to secure their first win of the season at home. NorthEast United, however, comes into this game feeling confident after winning their opening match against Mohammedan SC, thanks to a late goal from Alaeddine Ajaraie. The Highlanders are also encouraged by their recent victory over Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup 2024 final and aim for a third straight win in Kolkata.
In 2024, Mohun Bagan Super Giant has scored in 15 out of their 16 ISL games. They have found the net in 11 consecutive matches and are just one match away from tying their club record of 12 games, which they achieved between March 2021 and January 2022.
NorthEast United FC has displayed solid defense, keeping three clean sheets in their last four matches, including two in a row. If they manage to stop the Mariners from scoring, it will be the first time they have gone three games without conceding a goal in the ISL.
Jose Molina, the coach of Mohun Bagan Super Giant, knows his team needs to improve defensively. They led the match against Mumbai City FC 2-0 but ended up drawing after conceding two goals. He is focused on solving this problem in future games.
“We need to defend better to win,” Molina said. “I’m upset about the last match, but we are working hard to avoid giving away goals. Staying positive and improving will be important for our next games.”
Juan Pedro Benali, head coach of NorthEast United, expects a strong response from Mohun Bagan after their recent draw.
“Mohun Bagan is a big club and will come out strong,” he said. “Our job is to make it difficult for them. The players are ready for this challenge.”
