NorthEast United FC vs Mumbai City FC, Indian Super League 2024-2025, Today Match Prediction

NorthEast United FC vs Mumbai City FC Match Prediction & Analysis

We're in the decisive phase of the tournament, where every match could make or break a team's playoff dreams. NorthEast United finds themselves in the thick of the battle, with a golden chance to strengthen their position. But standing in their way is a formidable Mumbai City side, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown this Friday.

Both teams come into this clash after frustrating draws in their last ISL outings. NorthEast United played out a thrilling 2-2 battle against Odisha, while Mumbai City were held to a surprising goalless stalemate by bottom-placed East Bengal. With points crucial at this stage, both sides will be eager to break free and claim a vital win.

Current Standings: At this point in time, NorthEast United FC sits at the top half of the table in 4th spot with 29 points, while Mumbai, not far behind in terms of points, are placed 6th with 28 points from 18 matches.

Head-to-head Record: In their Indian Super League history, NorthEast United and Mumbai City have clashed 21 times. Mumbai City holds the upper hand with 11 victories, while NorthEast United has secured 6 wins, and 4 matches have ended in draws.

TEAMS PREVIEW

NorthEast United FC Preview

The Highlanders come into this clash seeking a much-needed win, as they have gone winless in five of their last six outings but unbeaten nonetheless. Furthermore, that unbeaten streak now stretches to eight games—they haven’t lost since the New Year. If they keep this momentum, a playoff spot might just be theirs for the taking. However, in order to progress further the Islanders must shed their over dependence on Alaeddine Ajaraie. 

Over dependence on Ajaraie

There are dream debut seasons, and then there’s whatever Alaeddine Ajaraie is crafting in ISL 2024-25. With 18 goals—already the joint-most in a single season—he’s set to rewrite the record books with five league games still to go.

NorthEast United’s reliance on Alaeddine is undeniable—he’s scored nearly half their goals this season, single-handedly driving their playoff push. But is that sustainable? Take Monday’s game against Odisha—his brace put them ahead, yet the moment he was subbed off, an equalizer felt inevitable. And when it came, his expression said it all—he can't carry the load alone.

Team News 

NorthEast United FC are expected to have a fully fit squad available for their upcoming match against Mumbai City FC.

NorthEast United  Probable XI - Gurmeet Singh (GK), Tlang, Akhtar, Samte, Zabaco, Mayakkanan, Nickson, Bemammer, Jithin, Ajaraie, Albiach

Mumbai City FC Preview

Like NorthEast, Mumbai are in a fierce battle for a playoff spot. But first, they must overcome the Highlanders—a team that handed them a brutal 3-0 defeat not too long ago. That night, Ajaraie ran the show with a brace, and Mumbai won’t have forgotten. 

Thus, Mumbai’s game plan will hinge on silencing Ajaraie. If they can keep him quiet, their chances of a positive result increase significantly. But that’s easier said than done. However, they have their own hurdles to overcome if they want to go the distance in this competition.

Mumbai's Struggles

Much of Mumbai’s struggles this season has arisen from the fact that they have been lackadaisical in front of the goal with bottling chances. Like what happened in the recent game against East Bengal where they had 15 shots with over 63% possession but no goal to show for. Yes, Mumbai don't concede much (second-best), but they don't score much (fourth worst); and that's going to be the worry for coach Kratky and his team as we enter the business end of the tournament. 

Team News 

As of the latest available information, there are no reported injuries within the Mumbai City FC squad and no potential suspensions.

Mumbai City Probable XI - Ratheesh TP (GK); Panwar, M. Singh, Tiri, Ralte, Y. Van Nieff, Fernandes, Chhangte, N. Karelis, V. Singh, B Singh

NORTHEAST UNITED FC vs MUMBAI CITY FC
Winning Prediction

Mumbai once dominated this rivalry with a 4-1 record, but NorthEast United recently turned the tables with a resounding win, shedding their underdog label. While the defending champions have a strong record at NorthEast United's home ground, winning five of their last ten matches there and losing only twice, NorthEast United's recent victory makes them the favorites going into this clash. It's a close game to call.  Looking at the odds, most bookmakers favor a win for NorthEast United. They are favored with odds of 2.33, compared to Mumbai's 2.65, with a draw at 3.45.

Northeast United to Win (2-1)

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