NorthEast United eye another statement win as Mohun Bagan await in IFA Shield

Kolkata: NorthEast United FC’s debut IFA Shield campaign could hardly have started better. The Highlanders registered a commanding 3-0 win over Sreenidi Deccan on Saturday, but a much sterner test awaits them on Tuesday against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their second group-stage match.“We’re happy to participate in the IFA Shield and to win the first game. We will take it game by game. At the same time, we are trying to give valuable minutes to other players as well,” head coach Juan Pedro Benali said at the pre-match interaction on Monday.With NorthEast set to face the Kolkata giants again in their Indian Super League opener on Oct 12, the Shield clash serves as valuable preparation for the upcoming season. “Of course, the most important thing is the focus on the first game of the ISL, and this next game against Mohun Bagan is a good challenge,” the Spaniard said.The two sides last met in the semifinal of 135th Durand Cup in Shillong, where Mohun Bagan advanced after winning a penalty shootout.This time, the setting and the competition are different, but both teams enter the contest on the back of emphatic wins. While NorthEast beat Sreenidi 3-0, Mohun Bagan opened their campaign with a 6-0 victory over the same opponents.For the Highlanders, the match also offers an opportunity to hand more game time to squad players, along with regulars like Jithin MS who scored their first-ever Shield goal in the last match, as they balance the demands of the Shield with the approaching start of the 13th ISL season.Having already secured a place in the knockout stage, NorthEast will look to build on their strong start, test themselves against one of the country’s top sides and carry momentum into the new season as another chapter in this growing rivalry unfolds.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.