PFC vs NUFC, ISL Prediction, Match Preview & Live Streaming, 23 November

Football enthusiasts are in for a treat as Punjab FC host Northeast United FC in the 9th round of the Indian Super League on 23 November 2024 at 17:00. Both teams are currently tied with 12 points each, reflecting their competitive form this season.

Punjab FC, positioned 6th, look to capitalise on their home advantage. They boast a solid lineup with their top scorer Luka Majcen, who has netted 3 goals. Coached by Panagiotis Dilmperis, Punjab FC have shown attacking prowess, averaging 1.60 goals per game in their last five matches.

Northeast United FC, under the guidance of Juan Pedro Benali, sit 3rd in the standings. Their top scorer, Alaeddine Ajaraie, has been in spectacular form with 11 goals. With an average of 3 goals per game in their last five, their attacking capabilities make them formidable opponents.

Expect a high-scoring game with recommended bets on over 4.5 goals, given both teams’ attacking strengths. The history between these teams hints at an exciting encounter, with Punjab FC winning their last clash 1-0.

In essence, this matchup is crucial for both teams eyeing higher standings, making it a must-watch for football fans.

Punjab FC vs. Northeast United FC Prediction & Betting Tip

Given the attacking flair both teams bring into this clash, the recommended betting tip is to bet on “Over 4.5 goals”. Here’s why this bet stands out:

Punjab FC vs. Northeast United FC Prediction
Betting Tip	Odds
Over 4.5 Goals	5.5

Strong Attacking Capability: Both teams have demonstrated their scoring prowess, with Northeast United FC averaging 3.00 goals and Punjab FC averaging 1.60 goals in their last five matches.

High-Scoring Potential: When these teams meet, the likelihood of a high-scoring game is significantly boosted due to their aggressive playing styles.

Value for Money: With the odds set at 5.5, this bet provides excellent value considering the offensive strengths and previous match trends. Expect an action-packed encounter with plenty of goals!

Punjab FC vs. Northeast United FC Odds

For those looking to place a bet on the upcoming match between Punjab FC and Northeast United FC, here are the betting odds:

Punjab FC vs. Northeast United FC Betting Odds

Bet	Odds
Punjab FC	2.17
Draw	3.41
Northeast United FC	2.86

Punjab FC are coming into this match as the bookmakers’ favourites with odds of 2.17. Despite Northeast United FC’s strong attacking form, they are underdogs with odds of 2.86. If one expects a tight contest, betting on a draw with odds of 3.41 can be an intriguing option. The odds reflect a closely matched game, making this an exciting fixture for bettors.

Punjab FC Team Analysis

Punjab FC Recent Performance: LWLWW

Recent Form: LWLWW Punjab FC have displayed a mix of results in their last five matches, demonstrating their capability to compete against strong teams. They have won three of their last five games, delivering notable victories against Chennaiyin FC and Hyderabad FC. Their recent form is as follows:

Home Team	Away Team	Result
FC Goa	Punjab FC	2-1 (Loss)
Punjab FC	Chennaiyin FC	3-2 (Win)
Bengaluru FC	Punjab FC	1-0 (Loss)
Punjab FC	Hyderabad FC	2-0 (Win)
Punjab FC	Odisha FC	2-1 (Win)

With an average of 1.60 goals scored per match over their last five outings, Punjab FC’s attack, led by top scorer Luka Majcen (3 goals), has been effective. However, maintaining clean sheets remains a challenge, achieved only once in their recent fixtures. Their strong performance against competitive sides underscores their potential in this Super League clash.

Punjab FC Key Players

Punjab FC’s success will heavily depend on the form of their top scorer Luka Majcen, who has netted 3 goals this season. His ability to convert chances will be crucial in this high-stakes match. Another key figure for Punjab FC is Ezequiel Vidal. Operating in midfield, he has consistently provided creativity and vision, setting up opportunities for the forwards. The expected lineup for Punjab FC includes:

Goalkeeper: Ravi Kumar
Defenders: Leon Augustine, Suresh Meitei Nongmeikapam, Ivan Novoselec, Tekcham Abhishek Singh
Midfielders: Ezequiel Vidal, Vinit Rai, Nikhil Prabhu, Nihal Sudeesh
Forwards: Luka Majcen, Asmir Suljic

Majcen will face a tough challenge against Northeast United FC’s solid defensive line, especially Michel Zabaco. The individual battle between Majcen and Zabaco could be a game decider.

Punjab FC Suspensions & Injuries

Currently, there are no reported injuries or suspensions for Punjab FC. This clean bill of health is a huge positive for the home team as they prepare to face Northeast United FC. The availability of all key players means Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis can field his best lineup without any significant alterations. This could enhance their tactical flexibility and overall team performance. Having a fully fit squad could be a crucial advantage, especially when facing a high-scoring team like Northeast United FC. Punjab FC will certainly look to capitalise on this to secure a positive result.

Player	Suspension	Expected Return
None	N/A	N/A

Punjab FC Tactics and Formation

Punjab FC Tactical Breakdown:

Formation: 4-3-3
Key Forward: Luka Majcen
Midfield Trio: Ezequiel Vidal, Vinit Rai, Nikhil Prabhu
Defensive Strength: One clean sheet in the last five games
Notable Strategy: Efficient in scoring, having netted goals in 83% of their matches this season

Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis appears to favour a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on a balanced approach with an emphasis on both attack and midfield control. Luka Majcen, their top scorer, leads the attack alongside Asmir Suljic, adding significant firepower. Their midfield, featuring Vinit Rai’s strategic vision and Ezequiel Vidal’s creativity, provides robust support for both defence and offence. Punjab FC’s defence, marshalled by Ivan Novoselec, aims to keep things tight at the back while capitalising on counter-attacks during key intervals. Overall, their strategy combines solid defending with effective forward thrusts, making them a versatile side.

Northeast United FC Team Analysis

Northeast United FC Recent Performance: DWWLD

Northeast United FC’s recent form has been solid, featuring a mix of wins, draws, and a single loss in their last five outings. Their performance has been highlighted by a striking offensive capability, averaging three goals per game. However, maintaining defensive consistency remains a challenge, with just one clean sheet in this period. Their offensive prowess is evident with Alaeddine Ajaraie leading the pack, having netted 11 goals in eight matches. Nevertheless, they have conceded an average of 1.8 goals per game, which is a concern for coach Juan Pedro Benali.

Home Team	Away Team	Result
Bengaluru FC	Northeast United FC	2-2 (Draw)
Northeast United FC	Odisha FC	3-2 (Win)
Northeast United FC	Jamshedpur FC	5-0 (Win)
Northeast United FC	Chennaiyin FC	2-3 (Loss)
FC Goa	Northeast United FC	3-3 (Draw)

Their next challenge against Punjab FC will be a test of whether they can maintain their scoring streak while tightening their defence.

Northeast United FC Key Players

Expected lineup for Northeast United FC:

Goalkeeper: Gurmeet Singh
Defenders: Michel Zabaco, Buanthanglun Samte, Asheer Akhtar, Soraisham Dinesh Singh
Midfielders: Mohammed Bemammer, Muthu Irulandi Mayakkannan, Macarton Nickson, Alaeddine Ajaraie, Jithin Madathil Subran
Forward: Guillermo Fernandez

Top winger Alaeddine Ajaraie, who has an impressive tally of 11 goals in eight matches, is undoubtedly the key player for Northeast United FC. His eye for goal and swift footwork make him a constant threat. In midfield, Mohammed Bemammer and Muthu Irulandi Mayakkannan will be crucial in disrupting Punjab FC’s play and setting up counterattacks. Alaeddine’s battle against Punjab FC’s defensive stalwarts like Ivan Novoselec will be worth watching.

Northeast United FC Suspensions & Injuries

Northeast United FC are currently enjoying a stroke of good fortune, with no reported injuries or suspensions affecting their squad for this important clash against Punjab FC. This situation allows Juan Pedro Benali to field his best side, ensuring that key players like Alaeddine Ajaraie can continue making a significant impact on the field. The lack of injuries and suspensions also means there will be fierce competition for starting spots, potentially elevating the overall performance level.

Player	Suspension	Expected Return
None	N/A	N/A

Player	Injury	Expected Return
None	N/A	N/A

This bodes well for Northeast United FC as they aim to leverage their attacking prowess against Punjab FC.

Northeast United FC Tactics and Formation

Northeast United FC Tactical Breakdown:

Formation: 4-3-3
Key Forward: Alaeddine Ajaraie
Midfield Trio: Mohammed Bemammer, Muthu Irulandi Mayakkannan, Macarton Nickson
Defensive Strength: One clean sheet in the last five games
Notable Strategy: Strong attack during the 61-75 minute interval

Juan Pedro Benali has utilised the 4-3-3 formation effectively, focusing on dynamic wing play and a high press. Alaeddine Ajaraie, with his 11 goals this season, spearheads the attack and is crucial for their goal-scoring efforts. The midfield, led by Bemammer, ensures robust defensive transitions and creativity in the final third. Defensively, the team remains solid with disciplined positioning, though they have shown susceptibility in the later stages of matches, conceding the most goals during the 76-90 minute interval.

Punjab FC vs. Northeast United FC Head-to-Head Statistics

The two teams have had some close encounters in their recent matches. Punjab FC slightly edge out Northeast United FC in past meetings. Here’s a look at their last five head-to-head results:

Home	Away	Result
Northeast United FC	Punjab FC	0-1
Punjab FC	Northeast United FC	1-1

These results indicate a competitive rivalry, with Punjab FC having a slight upper hand. Their last match saw Punjab winning by a single goal, showing their potential to secure tight victories.