Despite playing with ten men in the second half, NorthEast United FC overcame Punjab FC 2-1 in today’s Indian Super League (ISL) match.
Match Summary
first half
15th minute: Spanish striker Guillermo Fernandez converts a spectacular cross from Moroccan striker Alaeddine Azraei on the left flank to give NorthEast United a 1-0 lead.
18th minute: Spanish player Nestor Albiach scores a volley to make it 2-0 after Buyanthanglun Samte’s flawless cross from the left flank.
First half extra time: NorthEast United had to play the second half with ten men after Dinesh Singh received a second yellow card.
second half
NorthEast United strengthened their defensive play and successfully stopped Punjab FC’s attacks.
88th minute: Punjab FC’s Ivan Novoselic scores a goal to make it 2-1 but it isn’t enough to save the match.
key players
Guillermo Fernandez: Was in the right place at the right time for the first goal and gave his team the lead.
Nestor Albiach: Doubled the lead with a superb volley in the second goal.
Dinesh Singh: Due to the red card, the team had to play with 10 players, which affected the match strategy.
Highlights of the match
NorthEast United played aggressively in the opening minutes and quickly scored two goals.
After the departure of Dinesh Singh, the team adopted a defensive strategy and thwarted Punjab FC’s attacks.
Punjab FC scored a goal towards the end but they could not equalise due to lack of time.
Current status of teams
NorthEast United FC: With this win, the team has improved their points tally and boosted their confidence for the upcoming matches.
Punjab FC: After the defeat at home, the team will have to rethink its strategies and perform better in the upcoming matches.
challenges ahead
NorthEast United will have to strengthen their defensive structure in the absence of Dinesh Singh in their next matches.
Punjab FC need to improve their attacking prowess and learn from the mistakes they made in defence.
The conclusion
Despite playing with just ten men, NorthEast United FC showed tenacity and teamwork, which enabled them to gain a significant victory. However, in order to improve their performance in the forthcoming games, Punjab FC will need to address their areas of weakness.