Why was Emil Benny substituted in the first half?

In another setback, NorthEast United head coach Marco Balbul was sent-off in stoppage time.

After the second match of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2022-23, one thing is clear NorthEast United FC and luck don’t go hand in hand. The Highlanders were controversially denied a point at the Sree Kanteerva stadium in Bengaluru as the home side got away with a narrow 1-0 win. To make matters worse for NorthEast United, their new signing Emil Benny was substituted in the opening half and they ended the game with a red for head coach Marco Balbul.

Bengaluru FC were undoubtedly the favourites coming into the game, thanks to their Durand Cup triumph last month. The Blues did live up to their expectations on most occasions but lacked the final touch every time until the 87th minute.

Alan Costa executed Naorem Roshan Singh’s looping corner to perfection with a powerful header past Arindam Bhattacharya. The Brazilian didn’t just break the deadlock, but also secured Bengaluru FC their first win of the season. However, the Blues did escape a late equaliser by the Highlanders as Jon Gazatanaga‘s goal was ruled out for offside by the linesman.

Emil Benny substituted in the first half

The result isn’t just the only thing that would trouble NorthEast United going forward. The Highanders’ new signing Emil Benny sustained a first-half injury and had to be taken off before half-time. NorthEast United’s assistant coach Paul Groves gave us an update as head coach Marco was shown a red card on his ISL debut.

He said that Emil took a harsh knock and dislocated his shoulder which was put back into place. Benny displayed how strong and committed he is, but he was taken off after the pain increased.

“He took a quite harsh fall and he dislocated his shoulder which was put back in. He was playing through pain and he is very strong and he contributed,” said Groves.

Emil Benny is one of NorthEast United's summer signings and has the load of expectations on his shoulders. This injury might be a worrisome sign for the Highlanders as the season has just begun. Emil’s recovery and the seriousness of the injury will dictate his return.