Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], September 15 (ANI): Defending champions of the Durand Cup, NorthEast United FC (NEUFC), are set to embark on their Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 journey with a high-stakes clash against the freshly promoted Mohammedan SC (MSC). This much-anticipated match will unfold at the iconic Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Monday.

Mohammedan SC clinched their spot in the ISL by triumphing in the I-League 2023-24 season. Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC wrapped up their previous ISL season in seventh place, narrowly missing out on playoff contention.

The MSC squad, under the guidance of head coach Andrey Chernyshov, is adopting a measured approach as they step into the ISL arena. The Russian tactician emphasizes building a resilient team and embracing the league’s competitive spirit rather than setting lofty expectations early on. Chernyshov’s focus lies in assimilating the league’s experience and fostering a fighting spirit among his players.

“First and foremost, our goal is to assemble a robust team for the ISL. We are aware of the competition’s intensity, as we will face formidable Indian and international players. The essence of the ISL experience is vital; we need to battle in every match and showcase exceptional football for our supporters. This motivation drives us to excel consistently,” Chernyshov expressed, as quoted by ISL.

On the flip side, NorthEast United FC, also known as the Highlanders, are riding high on their recent success. Their historic victory in the Durand Cup marked their first major silverware. However, head coach Juan Pedro Benali remains focused on future challenges rather than past triumphs. His aim is to guide NEUFC through a successful ISL season, leaving no room for complacency.

“The euphoria of winning the Durand Cup was short-lived; it dissipates within 24 hours. To move forward, we must let go of past glories. While it makes for great headlines and statistics, our focus must remain on the next game,” Benali remarked, as quoted by ISL.

Benali emphasizes a strategic mindset for each game, treating every match as a final. “Our approach is to be smart, composed, and methodical. We are up against a strong team with an adept coach, in a fantastic stadium filled with passionate fans,” he added.

Both NEUFC and MSC boast promising Indian talents in their squads. Parthib Gogoi emerged as a standout player for NEUFC in ISL 2023-24, netting five goals and providing four assists across 17 league appearances. With a goal conversion rate of 26.32% and 39 touches inside the opponent’s box, Gogoi aims to amplify his impact this season.

Mohammedan SC, on the other hand, pins its hopes on former Hyderabad FC star Makan Chothe. Chothe has demonstrated an impressive dribble success rate of 60% (21 out of 35 attempts) since the start of 2024, making him one of the top dribblers among Indian players.

Benali is optimistic about the potential of Indian players across clubs in the ISL 2024-25 season. “There is a remarkable pool of talent among Indian players in the ISL. Our collective effort should be to help them aspire higher continuously. The sky’s the limit, and they should never cease progressing,” he concluded.

This opening encounter promises to set the tone for an exhilarating ISL season, as both teams are geared up to deliver thrilling performances on the grand stage.