ISL: Highlanders Ready for Stern Test Against Mumbai City

NorthEast United FC will look to secure their first win of the season when they face in-form Mumbai City FC in what promises to be a crucial Sunday evening battle.

The Highlanders come into the game with new confidence and faith after spirited 1-1 draw against Bengaluru FC. NorthEast demonstrated character and composure in spite of its early concession in that very match, as the equaliser was created by substitute Lalrinzual in the second half in a very classy way, thus ensuring NorthEast a very important point in the road.

It was a good message by a young team that had a desire to evolve each game.

Head coach Juan Pedro Benali has not lost faith in his players as he has attested to their professionalism and hunger. He has admitted that the beginning defeat was difficult but the next response at Bengaluru match up was a reflection of the fighting spirit in the team. The squad according to him is learning at a good pace and is in no way giving up on getting much better through unity and effort.

Lalrinzuala who scored the goal in the last game added that, personal success was irrelevant without the success of the team. To him it is pride, emotion and wearing the badge to the latter and abide by the battle against a strong Mumbai side of 90 minutes.

As the current third in the table, having already won two of their two matches, Mumbai will come in as a favourite. They won their last game against Kerala Blasters FC 1-0 and have their eyes on a third consecutive clean sheet.

NorthEast United however have demonstrated that they are able to compete in the ranks of good teams when they remain disciplined and apply their plan.

The Highlanders and their fans do not need three points when it comes to this one, but more of a chance to make a statement and show that they are prepared to battle hard in this season, they want to show their supporters that they have faith in them and they are prepared to deliver.

As faith increases and trust is established, the Northeast side will also be hoping that their team will come up again.

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