Jamshedpur, Feb 13: NorthEast United FC secured a 2-0 triumph over Jamshedpur FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season on Thursday.
Alaaeddine Ajaraie scripted history as he scored another brilliant brace, storming to 20 goals in the 2024-25 season. He broke Ferran Corominas (2017-18) and Bartholomew Ogbeche’s (2021-22) joint record for the most goals by an individual in a single ISL campaign (18 goals). This was also the first time NorthEast United FC registered a win on the road against Jamshedpur FC in six matches in ISL history. This win keeps Juan Pedro Benali’s men well within the mix of the playoffs, as they climbed to the fourth spot with 32 points from 21 matches to their name.
NorthEast United FC got off the blocks quickly as Ajaraie handed them the lead in the sixth minute of the match. It was a brilliant move from Redeem Tlang who found Thoi Singh in space on the right flank. The winger released his cross early in the box as the Moroccan slotted it past Albino Gomes in goal, registering his record-breaking 19th goal of the campaign.Despite the early setback, Khalid Jamil’s men pushed bodies forward and kept the visitors on their toes. However, they were unable to break open the opposition’s defence in the final third. In the meantime, Parthib forced another save from Albino as the youngster showed immaculate control from a long throw before unleashing a shot on target.
Jamshedpur FC enjoyed more of the ball possession but failed to create enough clear chances for Javi Siverio upfront to bring themselves back in the game. Their sustained pressure almost bore fruit right at the stroke of halftime when Gurmeet Singh failed to gather the ball from Muhammad Uvais’ long throw and it landed kindly for Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC) graduate Mohammed Sanan in the box. However, Michel Zabaco anticipated the danger and cleared Sanan’s effort right off the line.The hosts started the second half with more zeal as they ventured forward to find a way back into the game. However, NorthEast United FC’s backline did enough to thwart the danger in the first quarter of the second half. On Friday, Odisha FC will take on Hyderabad FC in Bhubaneswar at 7:30 pm IST. (Agencies)
