Predicted Lineups
NorthEast United FC (4-3-3)
Mirshad Michu (GK), Dinesh Singh, Hamza Regragui, Miguel Zobaco, Tondonba Singh, Ali Bemammer, Phalguni Singh, Gani Nigam, Jithin MS, Romain Phillippoteaux (C), Nestor Albiach
East Bengal (4-2-3-1)
Prabhsukhan Gill (GK), Mohammad Rakip, Lalchungnunga, Hijazi Maher, Mandar Rao Dessai, Saul Crespo, Jose Pardo, Nandhakumar Sekar, Naorem Mahesh Singh, PV Vishnu, Cleiton Silva
In their bid to extend their impressive 11-game unbeaten streak, East Bengal FC is gearing up for an important clash against NorthEast United FC in Guwahati on Saturday, February 10.
While East Bengal has been in exceptional form, the same cannot be said for NorthEast United, who have only managed to secure one victory in their last 12 Indian Super League (ISL) matches.
Despite NorthEast United's struggle to find consistent wins, they remain in contention for a playoff spot, with just one point separating them from sixth-placed Bengaluru FC.
Under the leadership of Juan Pedro Benali, NorthEast United has shown signs of improvement, as evidenced by their recent victory over Kerala Blasters FC in the Super Cup. However, their defensive vulnerabilities and mistakes in crucial areas have proven costly.
In contrast, East Bengal FC has emerged as one of the most formidable teams in the league, breaking a 12-year trophy drought with their Super Cup triumph. Despite a pulsating 2-2 draw against Mohun Bagan SG in the Kolkata derby, where they arguably deserved more, East Bengal remains among the contenders for the sixth spot in the standings.
Sitting in ninth place, just two points behind sixth-placed Bengaluru FC, East Bengal has played fewer games than both Bengaluru FC and NorthEast United. A victory in the upcoming clash could propel them ahead of their rivals and solidify their position in the standings.
With their quality players and the momentum they've gained, East Bengal FC enters the match as favorites, aiming to secure a crucial win and further cement their position in the ISL standings.