Hyderabad FC gear up to take on the Highlanders at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium

After yet another tough Indian Super League clash last week against Punjab FC, Hyderabad FC are back in action this Monday when they welcome NorthEast United to the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Hyderabad on March 4.

The youngsters have not got a positive result in recent games and will look to take the fight to the Highlanders, who are need of points to keep their hopes of playoff qualification alive for the season.

Juan Pedro Benali’s side are fresh from a morale-boosting victory over FC Goa last weekend and are one of the toughest sides to face in the competition after the restart.

The likes of Michel Zabaco, Mohammed Ali Bemammer, Romain Philippoteaux, Asheer Akhtar and Konsham Phalguni Singh have all been in fine form off late for the Highlanders.

Nestor Albiach and Tomi Juric have been scoring for fun and will be the danger men for Hyderabad in this tie.

HFC Head Coach Thangboi Singto believes that the Highlanders will be a tough test for his young side. “NorthEast are a strong side, with good foreign players and Indian players who are doing really well this season.”

“They are well organized, dangerous on the counter and are currently fighting for a place in the top-6 so will not be an easy side to face tomorrow,” he added.

With a strong head-to-head record in the league, the Nawabs will be determined to put in a strong performance this Monday.

Skipper Joao Victor will be crucial for the side in the middle of the park while Alex Saji, Muhammed Rafi and Laxmikant Kattimani will have their work cut out against a potent NorthEast attack.

But the Highlanders have kept just two clean sheets in all competitions this season. Their backline will be tested by the trio of Abdul Rabeeh, Ramhlunchhunga and Makan Chothe, all of who have had their moments in recent games.

“The boys had good time preparing for this game,” said Coach Thangboi, about his side’s preparations ahead of this game.

“Though a lot has changed in our camp since the last time we played them, the boys are fresh and will give it their all,” the Head Coach added.

With three points very crucial for both sides, this Indian Super League clash will be an entertaining watch even for the neutral.