ISL 2015: Chennaiyin FC vs NorthEast United FC - Players to watch out for

Mendoza and Simao will make the difference for both teams.

New Delhi: Chennaiyin and NorthEast United FC will be engrossed in an exciting battle in match No. 35 on Tuesday in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2015 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.

Chennai lie sixth in the table and a win could see them move higher in the table and equal points with Atletico de Kolkata. Chennai will be wary of a fresh NorthEast side who have performed well recently.

A much-needed performance is required by the visitors, who lie seventh at the moment and are on the same tally with their opponents.

The JLN stadium here is expected to be packed with large amount of supporters and that could be a boost for the home team although the Highlanders will expect their good away form to continue.

The last time these two sides met, Chennai were beaten by NorthEast.

We look at players who could make a major impact in the game for both the teams.

Stiven Mendoza (Chennaiyin): Mendoza has been Chennai's best player alongside Elano this season and his six goals tell that. The Colombian forward will be getting chances and he will want to convert them and be the leading scorer of this season. The NorthEast defence has tightened up and will provide a stiff challenge to Mendoza.

Simao (NorthEast United): The Highlanders’ marquee player Simao has been pivotal for the side right throughout the campaign. Simao’s free-kick was crucial for NorthEast in their game against Delhi and he followed it up with a spot-kick against ATK. Simao's impact will mean a lot for NorthEast. Simao has scored three goals so far, and another one against the hosts will be handy for his side.