Sat Nov 23 13:34:56 UTC 2024: **NorthEast United FC Aim for Victory Against Punjab FC in Delhi Clash**
NEW DELHI – NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) will face Punjab FC in a crucial Indian Super League (ISL) match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi on November 23rd, 2024, at 5 pm. Both teams are currently tied on 12 points, with NEUFC holding the third position due to a superior goal difference.
NEUFC enters the match on a high, riding a three-match unbeaten streak including victories over Jamshedpur FC (5-0) and Odisha FC (3-2). Their last match ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Bengaluru FC. Leading the charge is star forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie, who has scored in his first eight ISL games, a league record. Another goal against Punjab FC would extend his streak to nine consecutive matches, surpassing Kalu Uche’s record. Ajaraie is also the league’s top scorer with 11 goals and has contributed 4 assists.
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali emphasized the team’s collective effort, highlighting the contributions of players like Jithin MS, whose recent India debut is a testament to his talent. Benali drew a parallel to FC Barcelona, stating that success relies on the collective contributions of all players, not just individual stars. Jithin, with 17 chances created, leads NEUFC in this area, closely followed by Buanthanglun Samte with 16. The team’s defensive strength, marked by goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh’s two clean sheets and 27 saves, is another key factor.
Punjab FC, coming off a 2-1 loss to FC Goa, will present a tough challenge. Benali acknowledges the difficulty of the match but is confident that NEUFC’s style and quality will yield a positive result. With the highest goals scored in the league, NEUFC will aim to continue their impressive offensive form in Delhi.
First Piper 