In a pulsating encounter at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, NorthEast United FC emerged triumphant, clinching a 3-2 victory against Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season on Sunday. This gripping five-goal match was marked by an impressive display from Alaaeddine Ajaraie, whose two goals provided a substantial boost for the home side. Although efforts from Hugo Boumous and Diego Mauricio got Odisha FC on the scoreboard, it was not enough to turn the tide in their favor.
The match commenced with the Highlanders, as NorthEast United is affectionately known, asserting their dominance from the outset. They adopted a high-energy press that left Odisha FC’s defenders with little time on the ball, thereby forcing them into making direct plays. Ajaraie, along with Parthib Gogoi, Nestor Albiach, and Jithin MS, relentlessly pressured the Odisha defense, with their seamless coordination and frequent forward runs.
Despite Odisha FC’s defensive resilience during the initial exchanges, it was the mercurial Moroccan, Ajaraie, who broke through. In the 12th minute, a slick interaction with Parthib Gogoi allowed Ajaraie to exploit a pocket of space just outside Odisha’s penalty area. With a well-placed shot, he left goalkeeper Amrinder Singh helpless, putting NorthEast United ahead and in the process, marking his seventh consecutive game on the score sheet—a new league record, surpassing Elano Blumer’s previous achievement of scoring in six consecutive matches.
Energized by Ajaraie’s opener, the Highlanders intensified their offensive endeavours. Their spirited attacks nearly doubled the lead when Ajaraie’s exquisite pass reached Nestor Albiach, but the Spaniard was unable to make a timely connection inside the penalty area. The Moroccan striker had another opportunity to score when his header narrowly missed the target following a precise cross from Buanthanglun Samte at a corner.
The breakthrough eventually came before halftime as Ajaraie secured his brace. NorthEast United’s high pressing game bore fruit as Mohammed Bemammer snatched possession in midfield, quickly linking up with Jithin MS, who then set up Ajaraie with exceptional vision. The confident winger calmly bypassed Amrinder Singh, doubling NorthEast’s advantage in the 40th minute and cementing his role as the match’s pivotal player.
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Facing a two-goal deficit, Odisha’s assistant coach Anthony Fernandes made strategic changes to inject renewed energy into his side. He introduced Hugo Boumous along with Saviour Gama and Thoiba Singh as the second half commenced—adjustments that paid dividends. Boumous and Gama collaborated beautifully to reduce the arrears. In the 60th minute, Gama’s precise through ball found Boumous, who skillfully navigated past NorthEast’s defenders to strike the ball past Gurmeet Singh.
Odisha FC, invigorated by the goal, pushed forward relentlessly. Their substitutes added vitality to the game, momentarily shifting the momentum in their favor. However, Juan Pedro Benali, the NorthEast United coach, responded with tactical precision. Opting to bring on Guillermo Fernandez, he aimed to restore balance to the Highlanders’ offensive pursuits.
Fernandez, despite enduring a challenging season, justified his coach’s faith by netting NorthEast’s third goal in the 71st minute, courtesy of a delivery from Ajaraie. This goal came against the run of play, destabilizing Odisha’s attempts at a comeback.
In the closing stages, Odisha FC exhibited determination, committing players forward. Their perseverance yielded an outstanding goal when Diego Mauricio unleashed a superb freekick in the 83rd minute, narrowing the deficit once again. Despite Odisha’s spirited efforts to complete their comeback, NorthEast United’s defense held firm, ensuring the team secured their third win of the season.
Ultimately, Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s brilliance shone through, guiding NorthEast United to a memorable victory. The match not only highlighted individual talent but also underscored the continuing intense competition in the Indian Super League, where each team contends passionately to seize their opportunities and secure vital points.
