Goa: An outstanding defensive display ensured that NorthEast United FC beat Mumbai City 1-0 in the ongoing Indian Super League(ISL) at the Tilak Maidan in Goa.
NorthEast coach Gerard Nus set up his side in a 4-3-3 formation with Dylan Fox and Benjamin Lambot at the heart of the defence. Khasa Camara playing in that no.6 role formed a midfield trident with Lalrempuia and Lalengmawia with Appiah, Luis Machado and Meetei sharing the frontline. Mumbai started off well pressing hard from the word go and dominating possession putting NorthEast on the backfoot. Ahmed Jahou looked like man in middle of the park making things happen for Mumbai, spreading passes all-around the field playing in such a fluid way, that it made things tough for NorthEast especially in the initial 25 minutes of the first half. But coach Gerard Nus had his work cut-out. NorthEast put on a spirited defensive performance making sure they don’t concede a goal. Just before the half-time Mumbai got a huge blow as Jahou was sent-off for a reckless challenge on Khassa Camara.
FULL-TIME | #NEUMCFC
A winning start for @NusGerard as head coach of @NEUtdFC 👏#HeroISL #LetsFootball pic.twitter.com/lqkWPaQPEw
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) November 21, 2020
In the second half, NorthEast were rewarded for their resilience when penalty was given to them with Kwesi Appiah converting it perfectly. Loss of Jahou meant a lot for Mumbai as they missed that creative spark to turn things in their way. Despite having big names in their ranks things somehow went wrong for them. A credit has to be given to the two Centre backs Fox and Lambot who put on the defensive shield to keep their side safe along with Camara who’s work-rate worked well for the home side, breaking play and recycling possession and was awarded the man of the match. In the end, NorthEast United won the match to get all three points.
