NorthEast United inched closer to a playoffs berth with a 2-1 win over 10-man SC East Bengal in the Indian Super League at the Fatorda Stadium on Tuesday.
Suhair Vadakkepeedika’s (48’) strike and an own goal from Sarthak Golui (55’) put the Highlanders ahead before the latter pulled a goal back in the 87th minute.
The win took Khalid Jamil’s side back into the top four. They now have 30 points from 19 matches, level on points with FC Goa in third. The Highlanders now need just a point from their final league match against Kerala Blasters to qualify for the playoffs.
NorthEast made one change as Nim Dorjee came in for Ashutosh Mehta. East Bengal made eight changes to their side which lost to ATK Mohun Bagan as only Matti Steinmann, Sarthak Golui and Raju Gaikwad were retained in the playing XI.
Despite not having regulars, SCEB made life difficult for NorthEast. The Highlanders had a few half-chances but East Bengal contained them well. Mirshad Michu made an early…