After securing a hard-fought victory over Chennaiyin FC in their previous game, Bengaluru FC take on a buoyant NorthEast United FC at the Fatorda Stadium on Tuesday. Both clubs are unbeaten this season and will look to strengthen their position in the 2020-21 Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) standings. Let’s have a look at some talking points ahead of the game. 

Two defensively sound sides clash in what could be a game of few chances

Both sides have shown their defensive prowess this season and the clash between the teams could well be decided by the club that makes the most of their chances. Bengaluru improved their performance in the final third against Chennaiyin and their head coach Carles Cuadrat will be eager to see if his side can score their first goal of the campaign from open play against NorthEast. The Blues have kept two consecutive clean sheets already and their custodian Gurpreet Singh Sandhu will be looking for a record-equaling 28th shutout in the Hero ISL. However, Sunil Chhetri and co will need to be at their very best against a NorthEast team who are defensively resolute as well and have conceded only three goals this season.

NorthEast’s frontmen may find it tough against Bengaluru

Idrissa Sylla and Kwesi Appiah have spearheaded the Highlanders’ attack this season but their next challenge against Bengaluru FC will be a tough prospect for both frontmen. The Highlanders have scored six goals so far, three from set pieces and three from open play with 33% of their shots coming from their strikers. It will be interesting to see whether NorthEast United head coach Gerard Nus will opt for two strikers up front or choose a more pragmatic approach against a side who they failed to score against last season.

NorthEast United must make the most of their possession

With an average possession of only 41% - the lowest in the league this season - NorthEast United FC have certainly made the most of their chances. The Highlanders have netted in all their games, scoring six goals from their 12 shots on target. Nus’ men have a shot accuracy of 30.76 – the third best among teams this season – although they average less than 9.75 shots per match. They seem very efficient in the final third, scoring goals with the limited opportunities that they created and will be hoping to continue doing the same when up against a formidable Bengaluru backline.