ISL: An attacking contest on card as leaders NEUFC lock horns with Bengaluru FC

KOLKATA: Still unbeaten after three matches, despite the frustrating stalemate away in their last game, NorthEast United FC will be back on Friday to continue their winning run at home and stay at the top of the Indian Super League table.“The mentality. We go into every game with the mentality that we are no longer the underdogs,” head coach Juan Pedro Benali said at the pre-match interaction on Thursday.However, on the other half of the field at Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, will be a side that is also unbeaten in their ISL campaign and sit on the fourth spot having played one game less than the hosts.When NEUFC take on Bengaluru FC, it will be a test of the Highlanders’ defensive solidity – having conceded just one goal in three games – against the attacking prowess of the visitors, led by India striker Ryan Williams.NEUFC were held to a goalless draw by Odisha FC in their previous outing, with striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie missing a stoppage-time penalty, while Bengaluru registered a 2-0 win over Chennaiyin FC through goals from Williams and Mihailo Perovic.Benali believes that the challenge for NEUFC will be as much about breaking down Bengaluru’s structure as it will be about managing their attacking threats.“The details, concentration and crucial phases of the game will make the difference,” Benali added, underlining the fine margins that could decide the final scoreline.NorthEast United, meanwhile, will look to use their own attacking options and vary their approach to create openings. And, despite Ajaraie’s late penalty miss against Odisha FC in the last game, the Spanish coach kept his faith in the skills of their Moroccan talisman.“I prefer to win 4-3. I don’t want 0-0. I want to win. If there is a penalty tomorrow, Ajaraie will take it. There is no doubt about it,” Benali made it clear.Bengaluru coach Pep Munoz is also aware of the Ajaraie threat to their defence on the day.“They have an identity, some patterns that they like to create and a clear style of play,” Munoz said on Thursday, adding that his team is prepared to face either a back-four or a back-five defensive system.Going into the match after a break, Bengaluru will also hope to keep up their winning run as the fixture looks destined for an exciting contest of attack and defence for the fans.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.