According to a press release by the Indian Super League, NorthEast United will be looking to carry on their form against ATK Mohun Bagan when the two sides clash on Saturday at the GMC Stadium, Bambolim. Khalid Jamil has led the turnaround for NorthEast United, remaining unbeaten in nine games after recording six wins and three draws. The coach gave credit to his players, saying “All the players have worked very hard. Because of them, we have reached here. I never think about the nine matches. It’s about right from the first game. The boys have worked hard and I am very proud to be their coach.” With both teams having a compact set up, Jamil is aware about the importance of scoring first. He said, “We are going to play against a good team. ATK Mohun Bagan is a good side. Defensively strong and their attack is strong too. We have to be very careful as the first match is very important. It will be the toughest game of the league. So we will have to prepare well and we will have to be strong.” The Highlanders have been impossible to beat after taking the lead on 13 different occasions, winning 8 and sharing points in the rest. Bagan have also led 14 times, winning 12 and drawing twice. However, Bagan coach Antonio is winless in 3 first leg ISL semifinals, losing twice and drawing once. “It’s an advantage but we are thinking about tomorrow. It’s our first game we have to be careful,” added Jamil.
Antonio Lopez Habas, coach of ATK Mohun Bagan said, “NorthEast United have had a good ISL season. It’s a very difficult team because they have good players in defence, central midfield and good players in attack. They also had good performances and give 100 percent on the pitch.” Their last three games cost ATK Mohun Bagan the League Winners Shield, but will look to redeem their season by lifting the ISL crown