Second-placed ATK Mohun Bagan are determined to defeat NorthEast United FC (NUFC) in their ISL match on Tuesday to keep pace with table-toppers Mumbai City FC.

Antonio Lopez Habas’ men had left it late to win their previous game against Chennaiyin FC, which they did 1-0, and the Spanish coach understands that NUFC will present a tough challenge as well.

“We have to respect our opponents and we have to be at our best to win the match. NUFC have good players and they will present quite a challenge,” he added.

NUFC too cannot afford any more slip-ups if they have to stay in contention for the play-offs berth.