NorthEast United FC returned to winning ways with a commanding 3-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League 2024-25. The match took place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on Monday.
At first, Nestor Albiach opened the scoring early. Soon after, Jithin MS and Alaaeddine Ajaraie added two more goals before halftime. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC created several chances in the second half. However, they failed to convert any of them. As a result, NorthEast United FC climbed to 35 points from 23 matches. More importantly, they secured a spot in the playoffs for the first time since the 2020-21 season.
Strong Start by NorthEast United FC
Right from the start, the visitors played with intensity. In the fifth minute, Jithin MS forced Mohammed Nawaz into making a save. A few minutes later, NorthEast United FC broke the deadlock. Ajaraie produced a clever flick to find Nestor Albiach. Without hesitation, the Spaniard controlled the ball and placed it into the bottom right corner.
As the game progressed, Chennaiyin FC struggled to regain control. In the 26th minute, NorthEast United FC doubled their lead. Mohammed Ali Bemammer combined with Jithin MS before passing to Ajaraie. The Moroccan immediately spotted Jithin’s run and delivered a precise pass. Without delay, Jithin calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.
Soon after, the visitors struck again. In the 38th minute, Jithin MS sprinted down the left flank and sent a pass into the box. Although Ryan Edwards blocked Ajaraie’s first attempt, the Moroccan quickly reacted and slotted home the rebound. With this goal, he reached his 21st of the season.
Just before halftime, Ajaraie almost scored again. This time, Nestor Albiach chipped a pass over the defense. Ajaraie skillfully dribbled past his marker but sent his shot narrowly over the bar. On the other hand, Chennaiyin FC had a rare opportunity when Vincy Barretto fired a shot on target. However, Gurmeet Singh reacted well and pushed the ball away.
Chennaiyin FC Struggle to Recover
At the start of the second half, Chennaiyin FC’s coach, Owen Coyle, made three substitutions. He introduced Lukas Brambilla, Jitendra Singh, and Laldinpuia to change the game. Almost immediately, Brambilla made an impact. He forced a save from Gurmeet after receiving a pass from Jordan Shields.
Later, in the 78th minute, Wilmar thought he had pulled one back for Chennaiyin FC. He slotted Brambilla’s pass into the net. However, the assistant referee flagged for offside.
To make matters worse, Chennaiyin FC were reduced to 10 men. Ryan Edwards received his second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Ajaraie. From that moment, Chennaiyin FC struggled even more.
Despite pushing forward, they lacked accuracy in front of goal. Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC defended well and secured their seventh clean sheet of the season.
Player of the Match
Once again, Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United FC) was the standout performer. He assisted two goals and scored one himself. Additionally, he created four chances and completed 13 out of 15 passes. Without a doubt, he was the key difference between the two teams.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, Chennaiyin FC will host Jamshedpur FC on March 9. Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC will face East Bengal FC in Shillong on March 8.