ISL 5: Everything about NorthEast United FC vs ATK
Two in-form teams NorthEast United and ATK face each other in a crunch encounter in the ongoing edition of Indian Super League (ISL). NorthEast are third on the table and a win will help them get closer to qualification for the play-offs. ATK will be looking to have a go and keep themselves in the mix. Here is our match preview.
Both sides unbeaten in last 4 matches
Both teams haven't faced a defeat in their last four games and that means things will be tight when they square up in Guwahati. NorthEast were held to two consecutive draws by Jamshedpur and Bengaluru in the fixtures prior to this. Meanwhile, ATK will be confident after a stunning 3-2 victory over Chennaiyin. NorthEast will be banking on the home support to shine tonight.
NorthEast eye best ever points tally
NorthEast are placed third on the league table with 19 points in their bag. A win tonight will see NorthEast get to their best ever ISL points tally. Their coach Schattorie will be keen to witness the same and make sure they are in line to make it far and achieve their best season. But it's the fatigue the Dutchman is concerned about.
View from both camps
In his press conference, Schattorie said, "I am worried that my biggest opponent tomorrow is fatigue. My goal is to stay in the top four but it is a huge task." ATK manager Steve Coppell believes that it often takes time to settle. "Sometimes it takes time to get to know to your squad. You need to know the key components of the team."
Players to watch out for
Visitors ATK will look up to Spaniard Manuel Lanzarote for providing much needed inspiration. He converted two penalties in the previous match against Chennaiyin. Also there is Uruguayan mid-fielder Federico Gallego, who has been the side's best performer. For NorthEast, forward Bartholomew Ogbeche will be their main weapon. He is the joint top-scorer in the league.
When and where to watch the match?
The match is set to be held at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati. The game is scheduled for a 7:30 PM kick-off. One can watch the tie live on the Star Sports network. The match can also be streamed on Hotstar. NorthEast have won 2 and drawn 2 in their last 4 games. ATK have three clean sheets in their last 4 games.
