NorthEast United FC head coach Juan Pedro Benali admitted they didn’t deserve to lose the game against Punjab in the 18th match week of the ongoing Indian Super League at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Thursday.

The Highlanders suffered a 0-1 loss against the Shers at this crucial junction of the tournament. Wilmar Jordan scored through a penalty in the 63rd minute to give a decisive lead to his team.

NorthEast United had 52% possession and took three shots on target but could not make the most of their chances.

Nestor Albiach had a golden opportunity in the 79th minute to equalize for the hosts could not take it.

“Sometimes, football is really unfair. We didn’t deserve to lose the game and Punjab FC didn’t deserve to win. That’s clear.,” Benali stated in the post-match press conference.

“Today, I’m proud of the players. We fought hard and played well. However, as we entered the final quarter, there was a lack of movement up front to capitalize on the chances we had created in that area,” he opined.

NorthEast United were without the services of Tomi Juric and Hamza Regragui due to injuries whereas Asheer Akhtar was out with a suspension.

When questioned about the absence of these players, he stated, “Of course! That’s 40% of the team.”

Benali feels defensively his team did a good job as they kept the opposition at bay.

“Punjab FC’s strength has always been Madih Talal, Luka (Majcen) and (Wilmar) Jordan, but today they couldn’t replicate what they did in the other matches. Defensively, we did a good job,” said Benali.

NorthEast United will next take on Mumbai City FC at the Mumbai Football Arena on Tuesday.