NorthEast United FC dominated East Bengal FC with a 4-0 win in the Indian Super League 2024-25 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. The Highlanders earned their 10th victory of the season, finishing with 38 points from 24 matches. This marked their first-ever ISL win in Shillong. Now, they move on to the playoffs.
A Slow Start for East Bengal FC
At first, East Bengal FC struggled to create chances in the first half. However, Cleiton Silva had a good opportunity in the 22nd minute with a free-kick from the left. His curling shot went just over the crossbar.
NorthEast United FC Takes Control
Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC pushed forward with intent. In the 32nd minute, Alaaeddine Ajaraie crossed to Nestor Albiach. Nestor’s header aimed for goal, but goalkeeper Debjit Majumder made a crucial save.
Breaking the Deadlock
Finally, the deadlock broke in the 59th minute. Ajaraie flicked a back-heel pass to Tondonba Singh. Singh crossed the ball to Nestor, who placed it into the bottom right corner with his left foot.
Extending the Lead
As the match progressed, NorthEast United FC kept attacking. In the 66th minute, Nestor helped create another goal from a corner. Guillermo Fernandez curled in a cross. Macarton Nickson’s shot was saved, but Ajaraie pounced on the rebound and struck it into the bottom left corner.
A Penalty and a Red Card
Afterward, Ajaraie continued to shine. In the 79th minute, he dribbled into the six-yard box before Tanmay Das fouled him. Ajaraie took the penalty and sent the ball into the bottom right corner. Then, in the 84th minute, Das committed another foul and received a red card, leaving East Bengal FC with 10 players.
Sealing the Victory
Even in the final moments, NorthEast United FC kept pressing. In the 86th minute, they scored again from a corner. Amid the chaos in the box, Mohammed Ali Bemammer found the loose ball and smashed it into the bottom right corner. The Highlanders sealed their 4-0 victory.
Key Performer of the Match
Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United FC) completed 17 of 21 passes, scored twice, created four goal-scoring chances, and delivered four crosses.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, NorthEast United FC advance to the playoffs. On the other hand, East Bengal FC’s ISL campaign ends with this defeat.
