ISL: ATK Mohun Bagan eye another win

For ATKMB, a third-straight win on Thursday could put them on top of the table

Margao: Fresh from their Kolkata derby win, ATK Mohun Bagan will aim to continue their red-hot form in the Indian Super League when they take on bottom-placed Odisha FC at the Fatorda Stadium here on Thursday.

The two sides have witnessed contrasting fortunes so far this season. Odisha are winless and find themselves in the bottom half of the table, having accumulated just one point after their opening two games. For ATKMB, a third-straight win on Thursday could put them on top of the table. They had beaten rivals SC East Bengal 2-0 in the first ISL derby on November 27.

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Odisha FC came from behind to secure their first point of the campaign against Jamshedpur FC but there will be concerns over their backline that has appeared shaky. Stuart Baxter’s side has conceded 29 shots so far, joint-most by a team this season. ATKMB striker Roy Krishna, with two goals in as many games, will look to continue his fine form.

Antonio Habas’ side, having scored all their goals from open play, will once again aim to hit their opponents on counter-attacks. Baxter is, however, well aware of this and wants his side to keep things tight at the back. “You respect them because they have good and experienced players,” Baxter said.

“While throwing players forward, we’re aware of the fact that, in transition, they get into the game quickly when we’re spread out. It’s up to the players on the day to make sure we take away the spaces they want and we defend well one-versus-one.”

Odisha FC will also have to be effective at the front as they face a side who are yet to concede a goal this season. Apart from ATKMB, Hyderabad FC are the only side who haven’t conceded a goal this season. And once again, Habas will expect his side to be effective at both ends of the pitch.

“The idea is to attack and defend,” Habas had said after their derby win against SC East Bengal. “This is football and we attack and defend during transitions. This is the idea for us. I don’t understand football as only attack or only defense.” After netting a brace coming off the bench against Jamshedpur, Odisha striker Diego Mauricio could be in line for a start. Baxter will also hope forward Marcelinho regains his form, with the Brazilian having struggled so far.