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NorthEast United vs East Bengal Preview: NorthEast to maintain positive start to ISL season

By Moti Prakash

04 Dec 2020

Moti Prakash 04 Dec 2020

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NorthEast United take on East Bengal in the Indian Super League
The game is the Saturday fixture in the ISL
NorthEast United are unbeaten in their last 4 matches
East Bengal have lost both matches since joining the Indian Super League
The newcomers have failed to score in their 2 matches in the ISL

Idrissa Sylla has scored twice for NorthEast United (Getty Images)

East Bengal go in search of their first points and goals in the Indian Super League when they take on NorthEast United on Saturday. The ISL newcomers have suffered back-to-back defeats, while NorthEast United are unbeaten with five points from three games.

NorthEast United Form

NorthEast United have made an unbeaten start to the season with five points from three games.

New coach Gerard Nus enjoyed a winning start as his side won 1-0 against Mumbai City thanks to a penalty from striker Kwesi Appiah early in the second half.

Having trailed 2-0 at half-time against Kerala Blasters, NorthEast United snatched a point with a final minute equaliser from Idrissa Sylla. Appiah had earlier halved the deficit with his second of the season before missing a penalty.

It was another draw in NorthEast's latest game as they were held 1-1 by Goa. Sylla scored a 40th minute penalty, only for his side to concede an Igor Angulo goal three minutes later.

NorthEast United Team News

Idrissa Sylla was given the nod to start in attack against Goa with Kwesi Appiah left on the bench. Nus may rotate the pair once again on Saturday.

East Bengal Form

It has been a tough start to life in the Indian Super League for East Bengal with back-to-back defeats for Robbie Fowler's side.

Despite dominating position, East Bengal lost the Kolkata derby 2-0 to ATK Mohun Bagan in their first-ever game in the ISL.

East Bengal are still waiting on their first goal after suffering a 3-0 loss to Mumbai City in their second game, which leaves them bottom of the standings.

East Bengal Team News

East Bengal suffered an early blow against Mumbai City with the loss of defender Danny Fox to injury after just seven minutes.

Robbie Fowler's side struggled defensively afterwards, with full-back Scott Neville having to play at the heart of the defence.

Forward Aaron-Amadi Holloway is not yet fit to make his debut for East Bengal.

NorthEast United vs East Bengal Head to Head

This will be the first meeting between NorthEast United and East Bengal in the Indian Super League.

NorthEast United vs East Bengal Stats

NorthEast United are unbeaten in their last 4 matches (Indian Super League).
NorthEast United have scored in their last 7 matches (Indian Super League).
East Bengal have lost both matches since joining the Indian Super League.
East Bengal have failed to score in their 2 matches in the Indian Super League.

Prediction

East Bengal have lacked cohesion in attack in their opening two games. The loss of defender Danny Fox is also big blow. NorthEast United have goals in them and can take advantage and record a second win of the season.