ISL / fieldstoriez
Photocredit : ISL media
NorthEast United FC returned to winning ways with a dominant 3-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season on Monday. Goals from Nestor Albiach, Jithin MS, and Alaaeddine Ajaraie sealed the three points for the Highlanders at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.
With this win, NorthEast United FC secured a playoff spot for the first time since the 2020-21 season, climbing to 35 points from 23 matches.
First-Half Blitz Seals the Game
The Highlanders started aggressively, pressing high and creating early chances. In just the 7th minute, Nestor Albiach opened the scoring after a brilliant flick from Alaaeddine Ajaraie, calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner.
Just 19 minutes later, Jithin MS doubled the lead with a well-worked team goal. A quick exchange between Mohammed Ali Bemammer and Ajaraie allowed Jithin to make a surging run and finish clinically past Chennaiyin goalkeeper Mohammed Nawaz.
NorthEast United FC made it 3-0 in the 38th minute as Ajaraie capitalized on a rebound after his initial effort was blocked by Ryan Edwards, scoring his 21st goal of the season.
Chennaiyin FC’s Fightback Falls Short
Chennaiyin FC made multiple second-half substitutions, bringing on Lukas Brambilla, Jitendra Singh, and Laldinpuia in search of a comeback. Brambilla almost pulled one back but was denied by NorthEast’s keeper Gurmeet Singh.
The hosts thought they had found a lifeline in the 78th minute when Wilmar Jordan found the net, but the goal was ruled offside. Soon after, Chennaiyin were reduced to 10 men as Ryan Edwards received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Ajaraie.
Despite creating chances, Chennaiyin FC struggled with finishing, allowing NorthEast United FC to register their seventh clean sheet of the season.
Key Performers
🔥 Alaaeddine Ajaraie – 1 goal, 1 assist, and a dominant attacking display.
⚽ Jithin MS – Scored the second goal and played a crucial role in attack.
🧤 Gurmeet Singh – Kept a clean sheet with crucial saves.
