Mohun Bagan Super Giant, eager to secure their first victory of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, will face off against NorthEast United in their second home game on Monday in Kolkata. The Mariners, who drew with Mumbai City FC in their opening match, will be determined to break their winless streak.
NorthEast United, on the other hand, enter the clash with confidence after securing a late victory over debutants Mohammedan Sporting in their first game. They will be looking to continue their winning ways in Kolkata, having defeated Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup 2024 final just a few weeks ago.
Mohun Bagan have a remarkable scoring record in the ISL, having found the back of the net in 15 of their 16 games played in 2024. They have scored in 11 consecutive games, just one short of their ISL streak of 12 matches set between March 2021 and January 2022.
NorthEast United, known for their defensive prowess, have kept three clean sheets in their last four games, including two in a row in their previous matches. If they can keep Mohun Bagan at bay on Monday, it will be the first time they have not conceded a goal in three consecutive ISL encounters.
Mohun Bagan coach Jose Molina is aware of his team’s defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded a 2-0 lead against Mumbai City FC. He is determined to address these issues and secure victories in upcoming fixtures.
“We have to play better and defend better to win matches. We have to focus on that, keep working, stay positive, and hopefully, in the next matches, we will play better,” he said.
NorthEast United coach Juan Pedro Benali anticipates a strong response from Mohun Bagan after their draw against Mumbai City FC. However, he is confident that his team will pose a significant challenge to the Mariners.
“Mohun Bagan haven’t had the best of results in the last few games. They will be eager to get over us and our job is to make it as much as difficult for them. The players are ready,” Benali said.
