NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) is the team to follow in this edition of the Indian Super League (ISL). Refreshing tactics make NEUFC as good a contender for the crown as FC Goa. Two points separate NEUFC and FC Goa, which reflects the intensity of the race from the initial stages of the competition.
As NEUFC prepares to take on Delhi Dynamos (DD) on the latter’s home turf, there are reasons to expect a keen contest. DD has struggled to hit form after promising an improved show this season and must look to secure its first win in five matches.
For NEUFC, the target obviously would be nothing less than full points.
The threat DD needs to handle would come in the form of Bortholomew Ogbeche, the 34-year-old striker with five goals to his credit. His sharp shooting has been the feature of NEUFC’s excellent run thus far and DD would do well to shackle him.
NEUFC has gained from its positive approach. It has conceded goals, but scored too with counter-attacks being the highlight.
Dynamos have repeatedly failed to transform their dominance into goals. The strikers have faltered when it comes to finishing the task, leading to DD’s current position, third from the bottom with much depending on how the defence stands up to the NEUFC’s innovative skills upfront.
DD coach confident
DD coach Josep Gombau looked ahead with confidence. “The boys are doing well. Against Mumbai, we had 20 shots at the goal, just six on target. We had 19 crosses, more than 400 passes and 58% possession.
“Everything worked except the goal. I am happy with the work the boys are doing. We are playing progressive football, but we are not finding the net, we are not scoring, We are playing attacking football and defending well.”
NEUFC coach Eelco Schattorie praised Delhi. “They have a very good team. It’s going to be a difficult game. Delhi, with the team they have, being that low in the table surprises me.
“I would dare to say if I had this team we would be in the top three. Tactically, it is going to be a tough match.”
The NEUFC coach might as well get a home crowd experience on Tuesday with north-east teams having a good fan base.
