Unbeaten Northeast United FC:<\/b> Unbeaten Northeast United FC will take on Bengaluru FC in an Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 clash in Guwahati on Friday, with both sides looking to maintain their positive starts to the season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Highlanders were held to a goalless draw by Odisha FC in their previous outing, while Bengaluru registered a 2-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC, with Ryan Williams and Mihailo Perovi\u0107 finding the net.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
NorthEast United head coach Juan Pedro Benali stressed that his team must approach every match with a winning mentality rather than prioritising defensive solidity. He also backed Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie to take the next penalty despite missing from the spot against Odisha.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI prefer to win 4-3. I don\u2019t want 0-0. I want to win. If there is a penalty tomorrow, Alaaeddine Ajaraie will take it. There is no doubt about it,\u201d Benali said on the eve of the match.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ajaraie had struck the post with a penalty deep into stoppage time against Odisha, denying NorthEast United a chance to secure all three points.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh will be another key figure for the Highlanders as they prepare to face a Bengaluru side that has scored five goals in its opening two matches. NorthEast United have conceded just once in their first three games, making defensive organisation and composure in possession important against the visitors\u2019 pressing approach.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Bengaluru head coach Pep Mu\u00f1oz acknowledged NorthEast United\u2019s clear playing identity and tactical flexibility but expressed confidence in his team\u2019s ability to exploit spaces while maintaining control. \u201cThey have an identity, some patterns that they like to create and a clear style of play,\u201d Mu\u00f1oz said, adding that Bengaluru were prepared to face either a back four or a back five.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Midfielder Lalremtluanga Fanai said the team must remain focused on the next challenge despite their unbeaten start. \u201cWe need to focus on the next game. It\u2019s not about losing or winning; we want to keep going and show what we can do,\u201d Fanai said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The two sides last met in February 2026, playing out a 1-1 draw at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. Braian S\u00e1nchez gave the hosts the lead before substitute Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia equalised for NorthEast United in the second half.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Munoz said his squad were in good spirits after having a break during Gameweek 3, while NorthEast United also have a healthy roster ahead of the contest.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The two sides last met in February 2026, playing out a 1-1 draw at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. Braian S\u00e1nchez gave the hosts the lead before substitute Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia equalised for NorthEast United in the second half.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Also Read: <\/b> Special Cricket Stories<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n