Kolkata, April 18: The Indian Super League 2026 season has reached its mid-season, where the battle for the trophy has become intense. Meanwhile, one of the contenders, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, are ready to play their ninth fixture against NorthEast United FC tomorrow at the home of the Highlanders, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, scheduled for 7:30 PM.
After losing impactful points in three consecutive fixtures, with two draws and one loss, Mohun Bagan SG secured a win in their last fixture against Punjab FC, which they secured at the last moment in a tight contest. However, that helped them regain their position near the top, and Mohun Bagan SG now sits second with 17 points, with the second-highest goal difference of +12.
About the Highlanders, this shaky ISL season is also proving to be difficult for them, as they have lost their positive momentum and failed to carry it into this season. With squad shuffling and the absence of their consistent key scorer, Alaaeddine, Pedro Benali is struggling to find a winning way. In the last three matches, with two losses and one draw, they sit eleventh in the table with 7 points and a negative goal tally.
Though whether it’s Mohun Bagan SG or NorthEast United FC, both teams are facing injury concerns. Apuia Ralte, the key midfielder of Mohun Bagan SG, missed the previous match and is also going to miss this one, with uncertainty over when he will return to the pitch. In the last match, Alberto Rodriguez got injured and is not available today. In the last few sessions, Subhasish Bose seemed sidelined for some time, though he is available, Lobera needs to reshuffle.
For the Highlanders, one of their key defenders, Zobaco, is out due to injury and will not be available tomorrow, also their reliable attacking player Jithin MS was in the sideline in the match day minus one training, probably he won’t be available. Apart from that, both squads have no card issues. Pedro Benali is focused on his team despite thinking of their strong opponent and where they positioned. As its eleven versus eleven he wants to eye on the highlanders.
Where the Highlanders stand now and what their results are, despite that Sergio Lobera considers them an opponent like any other. Lobera stated that this will not be an easy match, no matter the opponent or their position in the table. He believes that if his team wants to win trophies, they must be ready to compete in tough situations against all kinds of opponents.
Even though NorthEast United FC may not be in great form, he warns that their players can still be dangerous, and he expressed if his team are not fully focused and do not give their best the match could easily turn in favour of the opponent, so his team must stay prepared and sharp. They have fast and attacking players who are strong in counterattacks, so Mohun Bagan SG must stay balanced, control the ball well, and avoid losing possession carelessly.
The last five head to head is tight, with Mohun Bagan SG having three wins, and NorthEast United FC has two. As in football, stats, results, and records fall short, only the game speaks on the field, Mohun Bagan SG has flown to Guwahati with caution, aiming to maintain their winning momentum. At home, the Highlanders are always dangerous with their effective players, and they have the hunger to bounce back on a high note. So, the match will be intense, with both teams having different approaches but the same aim, to win.
ISL 2025-26 – NorthEast United FC vs Mohun Bagan SG Pre Match Press Conference
Live on Sony Liv, streaming on Fancode App.
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