Synopsis
In a thrilling encounter at Kalinga Stadium, Odisha FC fought back twice to secure a 2-2 draw against NorthEast United FC in the ISL 2024-25. A remarkable brace from Alaaeddine Ajaraie was not enough to secure victory for the Highlanders, as Isak Vanlalruatfela found a late equalizer.Key Takeaways
- Alaaeddine Ajaraie scored two goals for NorthEast United FC.
- Isak Vanlalruatfela netted a late equalizer for Odisha FC.
- Both teams displayed resilience, overcoming goal deficits.
- Ajaraie's tally of 18 goals equals the ISL record for a single season.
- Next matches: Odisha FC vs. FC Goa and NorthEast United FC vs. Mumbai City FC.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 3 (NationPress) Alaaeddine Ajaraie netted a stunning brace for NorthEast United FC, yet Isak Vanlalruatfela managed to find an injury-time equaliser, allowing Odisha FC to secure a 2-2 draw during the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at Kalinga Stadium on Monday, thus dampening the celebration by overcoming a goal deficit twice.
Ajaraie's record-breaking brace fell short for the Highlanders, as Thoiba Singh and Vanlalruatfela provided timely goals to earn a point in the contest. This result means that NorthEast United FC has relinquished 17 points this season from winning positions. Despite the draw, Ajaraie's brace brought his tally to 18 goals this season, equaling the highest individual goal record in an ISL season, previously set by Ferran Corominas (2017-18) and Bartholomew Ogbeche (2021-22).
The match started slowly but began to gain momentum just after the first quarter, when Odisha FC had a prime chance to take the lead. Diego Mauricio skillfully maneuvered into the box, setting up Jerry Mawihmingthanga, who unfortunately squandered a golden opportunity by failing to connect properly in front of an open goal.
Moments later, Rahul KP made a powerful run down the right flank, forcing a save from Gurmeet Singh in goal, as the hosts began to assert pressure on the Highlanders' defense.
During the next phase, both teams generated half-chances, but the defenses held firm. Following a drinks break, NorthEast United FC had their best chance when Macarton Nickson delivered a superb pass to Jithin MS on the right. The winger crossed the ball to an onrushing Nestor Albiach, but Mourtada Fall executed a brilliant tackle to deny the shot.
The second half continued with abundant chances for both sides, yet neither could find the quality needed to clinch the match. Hugo Boumous and Vanlalruatfela came close for Odisha FC, while Michel Zabaco and Nestor failed to capitalize for the Highlanders.
NorthEast United FC finally broke the deadlock in the 67th minute when Redeem Tlang took a short corner, playing it to Buanthanglun Samte. The right-back sent an exquisite ball into the box for Ajaraie, who made no mistake with a precise finish, bringing his season total to 17 goals.
However, the Highlanders' joy was fleeting as Odisha FC equalized in the 78th minute through Thoiba, who capitalized on an inch-perfect cross from Isak.
Desiring a winning goal, Juan Pedro Benali introduced Parthib Gogoi in the 80th minute, replacing Jithin. Then, in the 83rd minute, Ajaraie reclaimed the lead for NorthEast United FC with a header from a free-kick delivered by Nestor, showcasing his intelligence by losing his marker.
In response, Lobera brought on Dorielton Gomes, while Benali substituted Hamza Regragui to secure the match. Yet, in a dramatic turn of events during injury time (90+3'), the duo of Isak and Mauricio executed a brilliant combination, allowing the youngster to place the ball into the bottom left corner of Gurmeet's net and level the score.
With little time left following the equalizer, both teams settled for a shared point despite their efforts.
Next up, Odisha FC will travel to face FC Goa on February 6, while NorthEast United FC will host Mumbai City FC in Shillong on February 7.
