Spreading the beautiful game across different regions of the country is one of the key objectives in Vision 2047, and the Federation’s plan to host the Hero Super Cup in Kerala, where both Hero ISL and Hero I-League teams will come together, is part of it. the-aiff.com is currently in Malappuram and Kozhikode and is following the progress of the clubs in the Hero Super Cup closely in a series of stories.

AIFF Media Team

KOZHIKODE: NorthEast United FC will look for three points in order to stake a claim for the semi-finals spot in the Hero Super Cup 2023 when they take on Churchill Brothers at the EMS Stadium, Kozhikode on Wednesday, April 19.

But then, a victory alone will not solve NorthEast’s problems. They would still need a favour from the other match in the group between Mumbai City FC and Chennaiyin FC to be played simultaneously at the Payyanad Stadium, Manjeri. As per the positions in the points table currently, a win for Chennaiyin would end North East United's hopes of qualification even if they win their match.

NorthEast United had a disappointing season – they finished last in the Hero ISL with only one win in 20 matches. They kicked off their Hero Super Cup campaign with a loss against Chennaiyin FC. But a win against Mumbai City FC in the second match put them back in contention.

Wilmar Jordan, who scored a brace in the previous match, would be looking to add to his tally of goals. NorthEast’s Head Coach, Floyd Pinto, believes it would be a tough match against Churchill Brothers. "They have been a powerhouse in Indian football for a long time and difficult to beat", he said.

Churchill Brothers, on the other hand, are already out of the competition after securing one point from their previous two matches. But the Goan team, despite not having much success, were not disgraced. They lost their 1st match against Mumbai City narrowly and held Chennaiyin to a goalless draw. Churchill's head coach, Mateus Costa said his team will have no pressure on them since they have nothing to lose.