Shillong, March 3: NorthEast United face a do-or-die battle against Chennaiyin FC on Monday, knowing that only a win will secure their place in the ISL playoffs.
Currently at 6th position sit on 32 points from 22 games with Odisha behind with 30 points and another game to play, even a draw will not be enough for the Highlanders.
Under the current ISL format, introduced in 2022, six teams qualify for the playoffs based on regular-season points. The League Winners’ Shield is awarded to the top-ranked team, while the ISL Cup goes to the playoff champions. If knockout matches end in a draw, extra time and penalties decide the winner.
Speaking ahead of the crucial fixture, Assistant Coach Naushad Moosa emphasized that the team is fully focused on the challenge.
“Chennai has nothing to lose. We have to control our emotions and stay focused. What’s important is that we play good football. We must stick to our plans, give our best till the final whistle, and the result will follow,” Moosa said in his pre-match press conference.
He added, “Every player knows the importance of this game—we (the coaching staff) don’t need to remind them. In training, we can see how focused they are. They want to go out there and win.”
Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie has been in sensational form this season, rewriting ISL records. His brace against Jamshedpur FC took him to 20 goals, making him the league’s top scorer, with 25 goal contributions overall. Having already scored against Chennaiyin in the reverse fixture, Ajaraie will be eager to add to his tally.
Ajaraie has been well-supported by Guillermo Fernandez (5 goals), Nestor Albiach (4), and Parthib Gogoi (2), making NorthEast one of the highest-scoring teams in the league. Meanwhile, the midfield trio of Macarton Nickson, Mohammed Ali Bemammer, and Mayakkannan has provided crucial support, controlling play and creating chances.
At the other end, goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh has been a standout performer, making 61 saves and keeping six clean sheets. Captain Michel Zabaco has led a resolute backline featuring Redeem Tlang, Asheer Akhtar, and Buanthanglun Samte, ensuring defensive solidity throughout the campaign.
