Atlético de Kolkata have been at the summit of the Hero Indian Super League from the start of the tournament and held on to that top spot despite a few hiccups along the way. They come into this match against NorthEast United FC on the back of a goalless draw against second placed Chennaiyin FC at home. The visitors on the other hand have played out two consecutive draws and currently lie sixth in the standings. Ricki Herbert’s team will be looking to upset the league leaders and gain some measure of revenge after having gone down to the same opposition by a 0-2 margin at home in the first leg.

Goal scoring has been an issue for the Highlanders, having netted only six times in eight games. Spanish playmaker Koke is responsible for half of them. Kolkata however have scored 11 goals so far with Ethiopian striker Fikru Teferra netting three. NorthEast have attempted more crosses (122-102) and have a better shot on goal percentage (57-56%) than the hosts but the visitors will have to make use of these qualities to get the better of the local side. Atlético de Kolkata play a physical game and it is no surprise to see their yellow card count soar. They’ve picked up a tournament high 20 cautions with three players seeing red while their visitors have had nine bookings and no sending-offs.

Form Guide (most recent first)

Atlético de Kolkata: DLDDW

NorthEast United FC: DDLDW

Luis García vs Joan Capdevila

Kolkata’s marquee man Luis García will be up against the marquee man from the rival side in this all-Spanish battle. García has been an important part of the set-up for Antonio Habas’ team with his ability to get past players and take shots at goal. His creativity will be vital for the side with Fikru Teferra and Jofre making searing runs into the rival box. Former World Cup winner Capdevila has however been one of the pillars of the NorthEast defence and will want to put a cap on his countryman’s creativity and goal scoring threat. The ex-Villareal player has a great left foot and can take shots from a distance while also being a danger from set-pieces.

Arnab Mondal vs Koke

The Indian centre half has been a rock at the back for the league leaders along with Josemi. His willingness to put in a tackle has enabled him to break up play on numerous occasions. He will have to be at his best to contain the threat of NorthEast playmaker Koke. The Spanish forward is the top scorer for the visitors and is capable of scoring spectacular goals, like the one he did against Chennaiyin. His movement with and without the ball is an important aspect of his game and Mondal will have to curb his distribution and passes and also prevent him from taking shots at goal.

Biswajit Saha vs Len Doungel

The Kolkata left-back has been a revelation for his side during the course of the tournament. His impressive work rate and mentality make him a dangerous player. He can cause a lot of problems down the left wing for the rivals but will be up against it when facing the pacy Len Doungel. The diminutive Manipuri hasn’t had much game time in the tournament but already has a goal to his name. Playing down the right wing, Doungel makes intelligent runs into space to receive the ball and cut in to shoot or lay it on for a teammate.

Players to watch

Atlético de Kolkata

Fikru Teferra – The Ethiopian hasn’t netted a goal in a while and he will look to get back to scoring ways against Herbert’s men. With good movement and pace, the striker is a handful for any defender on his day. He had chances to score against Chennai in his previous match but was unable to put the ball past Gennaro Bracigliano. He will want to put that behind him and increase his tally.

NorthEast United FC

Felipe de Castro – The Brazilian was charged up in his side’s previous encounter against Pune City but was unable to score or provide an assist. His constant movement and work rate make him a key player for the Highlanders who will hope that he can continue in the same vein and link defence with attack alongside Kondwani Mtonga.

Team Speak

Atlético de Kolkata

Luis García (marquee player): “We are on the top of the table, that means we are definitely doing something right. The only thing is that we have to find a way to score more goals and start winning again.”

NorthEast United FC

James Keane (striker): “We played very good football so far, we have been very solid in defence; we have been unlucky maybe when it comes to scoring, but I am sure that goals will come."