Dempo are at the top of the table with 13 points from five matches. ONGC, on the other, hand are amongst the bottom-placed teams on two points from five matches.
However in the Capital, ONGC have acquired a minor reputation as a giant-killer.
They led high-flying Prayag United 1-0 before conceding a last-minute equaliser. Last Friday, they foiled the rampaging Okolie Odafe and held Mohun Bagan to a goalless draw.
Coach Subrata Bhattacharya (Jr) is satisfied with the shape of his team and defensive organisation, but feels there is a distinct weakness in the scoring area.
ONGC rely a lot on the exciting Liberian Eric P Brown and Japanese attacking midfielder Yusa Katsumi for goals.
But scoring against Dempo is not easy. Their goalkeeper Subashish Roy Chowdhury is in good form and was Man of the Match in their 2-1 win against United Sikkim FC. The defence is also compact with ex-international Mahesh Gawli, Cresan Antao and Debabrata Roy in form.
Dempo have the most exciting quartet of midfielders in the country. Internationals Anthony Pereira on the right and Clifford Miranda on the left provide thrust on the flanks, accurate crosses and sound work rate. Climax Lawrence is the playmaker and he is ably supported by the midfield dynamo Peter Carvalho, Man of the Match in the last two matches. (MORE)