In-form Punjab FC look to continue upward momentum against SC Delhi, NorthEast United face Inter Kashi

NorthEast United FC will seek a vital home victory as they face Inter Kashi in their Indian Super League 2025-26 match at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Saturday, May 2.

NorthEast United FC will seek a vital home victory as they face Inter Kashi in their Indian Super League 2025-26 match at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Saturday, May 2. The match will kick off at 17:00 IST.

Later in the evening, Sporting Club Delhi will host Punjab FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, with kick-off slated for 19:30 IST.

Saturday's double-header presents a fascinating contrast in objectives, as the Highlanders fight desperately to stave off the threat of relegation, while the Shers aim to bolster their push for the league title.

NorthEast United FC vs Inter Kashi

NorthEast United FC will aim to bounce back following a 0-2 defeat against FC Goa in their previous outing. Despite promising attacking bursts from Jithin MS and substitute Parthib Gogoi, the Highlanders were ultimately undone by strikes from Dejan Dražić and Mohammed Yasir.

Despite their recent struggles, the Highlanders possess enough firepower to mount a fierce survival bid against Inter Kashi. Currently sitting 12th with seven points from 10 matches, NorthEast United FC are desperately seeking a win to steer clear of relegation. A victory would take them to 10 points, providing a crucial lifeline to their campaign. For the hosts, Jithin MS and Parthib Gogoi will be key players to watch, having shown bright attacking intent in their previous outing.

Head coach Juan Pedro Benali underscored the fixture’s significance, urging his players to absorb the pressure and play without fear. "With three games remaining, this is our most important fixture. We need to return to that mental calmness and a fresh winning mentality," he said. "Don't be afraid. Fear makes you nervous and anxious. Just be yourself and enjoy the game; I am responsible for the result."

NorthEast United FC player Mohammed Ashraf expressed his motivation ahead of the contest. "The competition is very tough, but I give everything on the training pitch," he noted. "I am happy because the coach trusts me and gives me opportunities, and I feel great."

Inter Kashi, meanwhile, arrive looking to arrest a recent dip in form following a 0-3 defeat to Punjab FC. Despite early saves from goalkeeper Lluis Tarrés and promising midfield link-up play between Alfred Planas and Sergio Llamas, the newly-promoted side struggled to convert their chances and were punished at the back.

The visitors will be acutely aware of their limited margin for error and will seek an immediate response to keep pace with the teams around them.

Currently sitting eighth with 11 points from nine matches, a vital away victory would propel them to 14 points, drawing them level with seventh-placed Punjab FC and establishing them comfortably in mid-table. Inter Kashi will look to the midfield duo of Alfred Planas and Sergio Llamas, relying on their creative link-up play to unlock the opposition.

Head coach Antonio López Habas highlighted the challenge of playing away and the importance of game management. "All teams have urgency. Playing at home increases the chances of winning by around 25 per cent, and unfortunately, we haven't had that advantage for two years," he said. "A football match is a game of moments. If we control them well, we will have a better chance of winning."

Defender Nishu Kumar reinforced the squad's motivation and his pride in representing the region. "It's a privilege to represent Uttar Pradesh and Kashi. We have trained hard all week," he added. "We are highly motivated and hope to secure a positive result against NorthEast."

Sporting Club Delhi vs Punjab FC

Sporting Club Delhi will target a return to winning ways at home following a 2-2 draw against Mohammedan SC in their previous outing. The capital side twice took the lead through a brace from Matija Babovic, including a 17th-minute penalty won by Mohammed Aimen, but were pegged back and forced to share the spoils.

Currently 10th with nine points from nine matches, Sporting Club Delhi can climb as high as eighth with a win. A victory would take them to 12 points, strengthening their mid-table position, provided other results are favourable. Fresh off a brace, forward Babovic and creative midfielder Aimen will be key players to watch, alongside Joseph Sunny, who leads the club with five goal contributions this season.