07 Wednesday 2024 | NEUFC

The stage is set for a fierce showdown as NorthEast United FC gears up to face East Bengal FC in a highly anticipated clash at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on the 10th of February. With both teams eyeing a crucial three points, this encounter promises to be a pivotal moment in their respective Indian Super League (ISL) campaigns. NorthEast United FC is coming off a hard-fought draw against Jamshedpur, and they will be eager to kick off the second leg of their ISL journey with a victory on their home turf. RIVALRY: A rivalry has been brewing between the two clubs since the Durand Cup, marked by a controversial incident where NorthEast fans were allegedly racially abused by East Bengal supporters. The tension escalated during a penalty shootout, which saw East Bengal emerge victorious. This history adds an extra layer of intensity to an already heated matchup. In their previous encounter in Kolkata, NorthEast United suffered a significant setback, succumbing to a 5-0 defeat against East Bengal. The memory of that loss will undoubtedly fuel NorthEast's determination to turn the tables in front of their home crowd. NEW ADDITIONS: NorthEast United has bolstered their squad during the winter transfer window, adding Moroccan midfielder Hamza Regragui and Australian striker Tomi Juric. AS IT STANDS: As the teams gear up for this clash, NorthEast United finds themselves in the 7th position on the league table with 13 points from 13 games, while East Bengal sits just below them in the 8th position with 12 points from 11 games. With the business end of the season approaching, both teams will be hungry for a win to climb up the table and solidify their position. Expect an intense battle for the entire 90 minutes as NorthEast United and East Bengal lock horns in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The outcome of this match could have significant implications as the race for playoff spots heats up.