NorthEast United FC delivered an impressive attacking performance to defeat Kerala Blasters FC 4-1 in their MG Indian Super League 2026-27 encounter at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday. Alaaeddine Ajaraie scored twice, while Antonio Moyano and CK Aman added a goal each to secure a convincing victory for the Highlanders. Momo Yansane scored the only goal for Kerala Blasters, but the visitors struggled to cope with NorthEast United's attacking pressure throughout the match.

NorthEast United Take Control With Early Attacking Pressure

NorthEast United started the game aggressively and looked to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities from the opening minutes. Kerala Blasters, under head coach Ashley Westwood, opted for a five-man defensive formation in an attempt to restrict the hosts' attacking options. However, NorthEast United's movement in the final third and their ability to exploit spaces behind the defensive line made it difficult for Kerala Blasters to maintain their shape. The hosts eventually took the lead when Ajaraie made a well-timed run to collect a long pass from Eneko Satrustegui. The forward showed excellent composure inside the box, went around goalkeeper Arsh Anwer Shaikh and calmly placed the ball into the net to give NorthEast United the advantage. The opening goal increased the Highlanders' confidence, and they continued to put pressure on the visitors. Jithin MS played an important role on the wings, using his pace and movement to help NorthEast United create further attacking opportunities.

Antonio Moyano Doubles the Lead Before Half-Time

NorthEast United maintained their attacking intensity as the first half progressed. Their sustained pressure eventually produced a second goal before the interval. Moyano capitalised on a defensive mistake by Sumit Sharma and converted the opportunity to extend the hosts' lead. The goal gave NorthEast United a comfortable 2-0 advantage heading into half-time. Kerala Blasters had to find a way to improve their attacking output while also addressing the defensive gaps that had allowed the hosts to score twice.

Momo Yansane Brings Kerala Blasters Back Into the Game

Kerala Blasters made changes at the start of the second half, bringing on Korou Singh and Sandeep Singh to inject fresh energy into the team. The substitutions helped the visitors increase their attacking efforts as they searched for a way back into the contest. Their improved approach paid off when Adrian Luna produced an intelligent backheel pass to set up Yansane. The forward finished confidently to make it 2-1, giving Kerala Blasters renewed hope of getting something from the match. The goal briefly shifted the momentum and gave the visitors an opportunity to put more pressure on the hosts. However, NorthEast United responded quickly and prevented Kerala Blasters from building on their breakthrough.

Ajaraie Scores Again as NorthEast United Regain Control

NorthEast United restored their two-goal cushion when Ajaraie found the net for the second time. The forward took advantage of another defensive lapse by Kerala Blasters and produced a curling finish to make it 3-1. Ajaraie's second goal strengthened the Highlanders' control of the match and underlined their efficiency in front of goal. His movement and finishing proved difficult for the visitors to contain. Kerala Blasters continued to look for opportunities to reduce the deficit, but NorthEast United remained dangerous whenever they moved forward. The home side used their attacking pace and direct approach to keep the opposition defence under pressure.

CK Aman Completes NorthEast United's 4-1 Victory

NorthEast United added a fourth goal through CK Aman, putting the result beyond doubt and capping an impressive performance in front of their home supporters. The final score of 4-1 reflected the Highlanders' ability to turn attacking opportunities into goals. Their performance combined effective movement in the final third with clinical finishing at important moments. For Kerala Blasters, the defeat highlighted defensive weaknesses that remained despite the changes made at half-time. Although Yansane's goal briefly offered hope, the visitors could not sustain their response against NorthEast United's continued attacking pressure. Ajaraie's brace was particularly important, as his two goals helped the Highlanders maintain control and secure all three points.

NorthEast United Gain Momentum in ISL 2026-27

The victory gives NorthEast United FC a significant boost as they look to build momentum in the 2026-27 ISL season. Their attacking display demonstrated their ability to create chances and punish defensive mistakes. Kerala Blasters FC, meanwhile, will need to regroup and work on their defensive organisation before their upcoming fixtures. The team will aim to address the issues exposed in Guwahati and return to winning ways in their next outing. Stay tuned with JUSZNEWS for regular updates!