NorthEast United thrash Chennaiyin 4-1 at home, climb to ninth in ISL standings
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
NorthEast United FC produced a clinical attacking display to dismantle Chennaiyin FC with a 4-1 victory in ISL 2025-26 at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday, 10 May. The dominant home performance, anchored by Jairo Samperio's first-half brace and an own goal, propelled the Highlanders into the top half of the table.
How the match unfolded
NorthEast struck early through Samperio in the fifth minute after a swift transition initiated by goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh. Jithin MS delivered a precise cross, and the Spanish midfielder finished calmly to put the hosts ahead. The Highlanders doubled their lead on the stroke of half-time when Samperio capitalised on a defensive lapse from Chennaiyin's left back Mandar Rao Dessai, collecting a loose ball and finishing into the far corner to make it 2-0 at the break.
Second-half collapse for Chennaiyin
Chennaiyin emerged with renewed urgency after the interval, with Lalrinliana Hnamte and Farukh Choudhary pressing in midfield. However, Gurmeet made crucial saves to deny both Daniel Chima Chukwu and Irfan Yadwad. As the game opened up, NorthEast capitalised in the 70th minute when a slick team move involving Macarton Nickson and Jithin MS led to a dangerous cutback. Chennaiyin defender Laldinliana R inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, extending the lead to 3-0.
Late consolation and clincher
Chennaiyin pulled one back in the 81st minute when Laldinliana redeemed himself with a well-taken finish following a smart build-up involving Alberto Noguera. Any hopes of a comeback were short-lived, however. NorthEast wrapped up the contest in the 90th minute when substitute Lalbiakdika capitalised on a goalkeeping error, as Mohammad Nawaz failed to deal with a powerful shot at the near post, allowing the ball to roll into the net.
Table implications
The victory sees NorthEast United FC climb to ninth place in the ISL standings with 13 points from 12 matches. Chennaiyin FC remain 13th with nine points from as many games, hovering just above the relegation zone. Jairo Samperio was named Player of the Match for his decisive two-goal contribution, with all four goal scorers registering their first ISL goals in the encounter.