NorthEast United FC climbed to the summit of the Indian Super League (ISL) table with a commanding 4-1 victory over Kerala Blasters FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday, 18 October. A brace from Alaaeddine Ajaraie and goals from Antonio Moyano and debutant Aman CK secured the Highlanders their second consecutive win of the season.

Key Developments

Ajaraie opened the scoring in the 15th minute after a precise threaded pass from Eneko Satrustegui sent the Moroccan striker through on goal. He composed himself, rounded Kerala goalkeeper Arsh Anwer, and slotted home to give the hosts an early lead. The Highlanders continued to press, with Arsh denying Jithin a second goal by palming away a close-range header.

Kerala Blasters struggled to respond. Striker Andre Green's effort in the 38th minute was blocked by Satrustegui, while defender Amey Ranawade failed to convert an Adrian Luna cross, with his attempt not troubling goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh.

First Half — Highlanders Double Up

Deep into first-half stoppage time, NorthEast United doubled their advantage. Ajaraie's initial shot was parried by Hormipam Ruivah, but the striker recovered possession and released Antonio Moyano, whose finish in the 45+4th minute put the Highlanders firmly in control at the break.

Second Half — Blasters Pull One Back, But Hosts Seal It

Kerala Blasters made two substitutions at half-time, introducing Korou and Sandeep Singh for Ranawade and Hormipam. The visitors reduced the deficit in the 60th minute when Yansane converted a flick from Luna with a low drive past Gurmeet to make it 2-1.

The Blasters' comeback was short-lived. Ajaraie struck his second of the night in the 70th minute, capitalising on a poor clearance from Korou. His curling effort from the edge of the box beat Arsh despite the goalkeeper's best efforts. Ajaraie was then substituted, along with Jithin, as the Highlanders managed the game with Nikola and debutant Aman CK entering the fray.

Aman sealed the result in the 82nd minute, converting a pass from Macarton to make it 4-1 and end any hope of a Blasters revival. Mohammed Sanan had come on for Vibin Mohanan for Kerala, but the visitors were unable to find a way through a resolute NorthEast United defence.

Table Impact and What's Next

The result lifts NorthEast United FC, managed by Juan Pedro Benali, to the top of the ISL standings, with back-to-back wins underscoring their early-season form. Kerala Blasters FC, meanwhile, will need to regroup ahead of their next fixture as they struggle to find consistency. The Highlanders' performance at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium will be a significant morale boost for their home support and a statement to the rest of the league.