ISL 2024-25: NorthEast United Overcomes Jamshedpur FC as Ajaraie Shines

Jamshedpur, Feb 13 (NationPress) Alaaeddine Ajaraie delivered an outstanding performance, netting two goals during a record-setting evening as NorthEast United FC clinched a 2-0 victory over Jamshedpur FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on Thursday night. Ajaraie made history by scoring a remarkable brace, bringing his total to 20 goals this season. This achievement allowed him to surpass the previous record held by Ferran Corominas (2017-18) and Bartholomew Ogbeche (2021-22), both of whom had 18 goals in a single ISL campaign.

This match marked the first time that NorthEast United FC triumphed on the road against Jamshedpur FC in six ISL encounters. This victory keeps Juan Pedro Benali’s team firmly in the playoff race, moving them up to fourth place with 32 points from 21 matches.

The game started swiftly for NorthEast United FC as Ajaraie scored in the sixth minute. A remarkable play by Redeem Tlang set up Thoi Singh on the right wing, who crossed the ball into the box, allowing the Moroccan to slot it past Albino Gomes, marking his record-breaking 19th goal of the season.

Despite the early goal, Khalid Jamil’s side pressed forward, trying to catch the visitors off guard. However, they struggled to penetrate the defense effectively in the final third. Parthib also forced a save from Albino with a well-placed shot.

Although Jamshedpur FC had more possession, they couldn’t generate sufficient clear opportunities for Javi Siverio to equalize. They nearly leveled the score just before halftime when Gurmeet Singh mishandled a long throw from Muhammad Uvais, but Michel Zabaco cleared the danger just in time.

The hosts came out for the second half with renewed determination but still found it challenging to break through NorthEast United FC’s defense. Coach Juan Pedro Benali made a tactical switch in the 59th minute, bringing on Phalguni Singh to help solidify their attack.

In the 65th minute, the Highlanders nearly extended their lead when Nestor found Ajaraie with a superb freekick. Although Ajaraie managed to connect, his header narrowly missed the target.

Things took a turn for the hosts when Nikhil Barla fouled Thoi in the penalty box, resulting in a penalty for the visitors in the 79th minute. Ajaraie took the penalty, but Albino Gomes denied him initially. However, he quickly followed up and scored from the rebound, increasing the lead to 2-0 in the 81st minute.

Despite attempts from Coach Khalid Jamil to alter momentum by introducing Stephen Eze and Ritwik Das, NorthEast United FC’s defense held firm, achieving their sixth clean sheet of the season with this crucial victory.

Jamshedpur FC is set to face Mohammedan SC in Kolkata on February 20, while NorthEast United FC will host Bengaluru FC in Shillong on February 21.