ISL 2023-24: NorthEast United, Jamshedpur aim to get back to winning ways

Both teams drew their previous ISL encounter.

The ISL’s gameweek 5 will get underway with an electric clash between FC Goa and Bengaluru FC. And then the focus will shift to the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium where NorthEast United will host Jamshedpur FC.

Both sides are level on points and find themselves in a comfortable place on the points table after gameweek 4. On that note, let us take a look at how things stand ahead of the fixture.

The Stakes

NorthEast United 

NorthEast United have had a great start to their season, unlike the last couple of campaigns. This year they look more promising and have even put their plans to perfection on the pitch. The Highlanders are now undefeated in their last three games.

They have won one at home and drawn two away from home. Juan Pedro Benali’s side have been able to score goals, but have failed to keep their lead intact which has led to them dropping four points in their last two games. 

Jamshedpur FC

Jamshedpur FC are in the same position as their opponents. Almost all their numbers match with the Highlanders. They have also won one, lost one and played two draws in their first four games.

The Men of Steel come into this game on the back of a frustrating 0-0 draw against Punjab FC. They had a good game, but failed to capitalise on their chances. And now, they will be keen to clear their mistakes and put up a better show against the Highlanders.

Injury & Team News

Manvir Singh is still out injured for NorthEast United while Jamshedpur FC are expected to have a fully fit squad available for selection.

Head-to-Head

Both sides have played each other 12 times.

NorthEast United wins - 1

Jamshedpur FC wins - 6

Draw - 5

Predicted Line-up

NorthEast United (4-3-3)

Mirshad K (GK), Dinesh Singh, Asheer Akhtar, Michel Zobaco, Tondonba Singh, Mohammed Ali Bemammer, Phalguni Singh, Romain Philippoteaux, Nestor Albiach, Rochharzela, Parthib Gogoi

Jamshedpur FC (3-4-2-1)

Rehenesh TP (GK), Pratik Chaudhari, Elsinho, Laldinpuia, Emil Benny, Pronay Halder, Jeremy Manzorro, Ricky Lallawmawma, Alen Stevanovic, Nongdamba Naorem, Rei Tachikawa

Players to watch

Nestor Albiach (NorthEast United) 

The Spaniard has been a great addition to the Highlanders’ squad. He is one of the most influential players on the pitch for NorthEast United. Nestor is very good with his vision and ball distribution and has the ability to create chances.

He also contributes heavily at the back by helping out his defenders. The midfielder scored a wonderful solo goal against Kerala Blasters in the last game and also has an assist to his name in four games. He will be a hard nut to crack for the Men of Steel!

Rei Tachikawa (Jamshedpur FC)

The Japanese midfielder has been one of the best players for Jamshedpur FC this season. He is quick, smart and can make things happen on the pitch. The young midfielder is known for his passing precision and smart movements.

He scored a wonderful free-kick goal in the game against Hyderabad FC which helped Jamshedpur FC earn their first win of the season. Keep an eye on him!

Did You Know?

• NorthEast United FC have never defeated Jamshedpur FC in Guwahati
• Jamshedpur FC have won the last four games against the Highlanders
• NorthEast United’s last and only win against Jamshedpur FC came in January 2021

Telecast

The NorthEast United vs Jamshedpur FC game will be played at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati. Kick-off is at 8 PM IST. Live streaming and broadcast of the game will be available on the JioCinema app and Sports 18 Network (Sports18 1/VH1 channel), respectively.