NorthEast United FC wanted at least a point to set up a mega showdown with Kerala Blasters on Sunday in the final league game of ISL 2016, but on Wednesday, Nelo Vingada's side got more than they wanted. They gave their one of the best ever performances of the season this time, to notch a 2-1 victory against Delhi Dynamos, one of the best teams of the season so far.
Guwahati cheered and celebrated. The action now shifts to Kochi. Sunday's game is almost like an ISL 2016 final, to be honest!
Indian forward Seityasen Singh drew first blood for the home side in the 60th minute of the game, while Romaric doubled the lead for NorthEast United, 11 minutes later. Didier Zokora and Robert Cullen, respectively, hogged more attention than the goalscorers, as their assists remained a thing of complete marvel.
With this result, NorthEast United moved to 18 points with one game to go. Kerala Blasters are on 19 points, meanwhile, but the Sachin Tendulkar co-owned side have a far inferior goal difference.
Star Indian goalkeeper Subrata Paul was absent from the match for the home side owing to suspension, but that said, the lethal attacking force of Delhi Dynamos, couldn't even get on to the scoresheet until the dying minutes, thanks to Marcelinho.
The hotshot Brazilian striker moved to nine goals this season and is single-handedly dominating the goalscorers chart.
It seemed that NorthEast United FC No 2 choice goalkeeper TP Rehenesh would have a torrid day, but instead it was Delhi Dynamos custodian Toni Doblas, who didn't enjoy a very good match this time around.
