FC Goa is set to take on NorthEast United FC in an exciting Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 encounter at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday. With both teams in strong form, this match is expected to be a thrilling contest.
FC Goa will be looking to continue their impressive away record in the league. The Gaurs are currently on an unbeaten run in their last seven away games, with four wins and three draws.
This has matched their longest unbeaten streak away from home in ISL history. Their strong performances away from home have made them one of the most consistent teams in the competition.
On the other hand, NorthEast United FC will be keen to maintain their strong home form. The Highlanders have been impressive at home, going unbeaten in their last four league matches, with two wins and two draws.
During this stretch, they have scored nine goals while conceding only three. They are currently the highest-scoring side in the ISL, having netted 30 goals so far this season.
However, despite their attacking strength, they have struggled with consistency, having won and lost twice each in their last seven home games, with three draws.
As of now, FC Goa is placed fourth in the standings, with 26 points from 14 matches, securing seven wins and five draws. NorthEast United FC is close behind in fifth place, with 23 points from 15 games, including six wins and five draws.
The Gaurs and Highlanders are both in a tight race for the top six, with only six points separating the sixth-placed Mumbai City FC (23 points) and the ninth-placed Kerala Blasters FC (17 points). A win for either team would go a long way in solidifying their position in the playoff race.
In terms of attack, both teams have been prolific in front of goal. FC Goa has scored 28 goals this season, with Armando Sadiku contributing nine goals.
NorthEast United FC’s top scorer, Alaaeddine Ajaraie, has found the back of the net 15 times, making him one of the league's leading scorers. However, both teams have been vulnerable defensively, with FC Goa conceding 19 goals and NorthEast United FC allowing 21 strikes.
One of the key statistics heading into the match is NorthEast United FC’s impressive home record against FC Goa. The Highlanders have scored in all of their eight home games against the Gaurs, their longest such streak against any opponent.
However, NorthEast United FC has struggled to maintain leads, dropping 14 points from winning positions this season, the most by any team in the league.
This defensive vulnerability has been a concern for the team, and they will need to work on tightening their backline if they are to challenge for a playoff spot.
FC Goa, on the other hand, has been in strong attacking form, scoring multiple goals in each of their last three away matches. With an average of 5.1 shots on target per game, they have posed a serious threat to opposing defences.
Under the guidance of head coach Manolo Marquez, FC Goa has shown a well-rounded style of play, combining defensive stability with attacking firepower.
NorthEast United FC’s assistant coach, Naushad Moosa, acknowledged the challenge posed by FC Goa in the upcoming match. “FC Goa are a very good team. It will be a very difficult and tactical match. We will need to have a lot of patience,” Moosa said ahead of the game.
Meanwhile, Marquez expressed satisfaction with FC Goa's recent performances, particularly after the break. “After the break, it has been difficult for teams to get points. We cannot be satisfied with our position, but we have won more points during this period,” Marquez said.
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