NorthEast United FC commenced their Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mohammedan Sporting Club at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Tuesday evening. The match, which remained goalless for the majority of the play, was decided by a stoppage-time goal from Alaeddine Ajaraie, securing three valuable points for the visitors.
First Half: A Tense Midfield Battle
The historic match for Mohammedan Sporting began with the home team asserting themselves early on. However, the initial 45 minutes were characterized by a fierce midfield contest, with both teams vying for control.
NorthEast United’s first significant opportunity came in the 10th minute when Jithin MS delivered a precise pass to star striker Guillermo Fernandez. The Spaniard’s shot, unfortunately, narrowly missed the target, setting the tone for a night of near misses.
As the half progressed, NorthEast United’s attacking trio of Jithin MS, Nestor Albiach, and Guillermo Fernandez began to find their rhythm. Jithin, in particular, was a constant threat on the left flank, making several incisive runs that kept the Mohammedan defense on alert.
Mohammedan SC had their moments as well, particularly after the 20-minute mark. Alexis Gomez and Mirajlol Kasimov led a series of attacks that resulted in two consecutive corners. However, the home team couldn’t capitalize on these set-piece opportunities.
The half concluded with a close call for Mohammedan Sporting. A surging run from Alexis Gomez led to a cross from Makhan Chothe, finding Remsanga in the box. The forward’s header went wide, and he was subsequently flagged offside, leaving the scores level at halftime.
Second Half: Increasing Pressure and a Late Winner
The second half saw both teams elevate their game, with Mohammedan Sporting starting brightly. Alexis Gomez continued to be a driving force, making two notable runs in the early minutes, though his finishing let him down on both occasions.
As the half wore on, NorthEast United began to assert their dominance. The introduction of Alaeddine Ajaraie as a substitute proved to be a masterstroke by coach Juan Pedro Benali, adding a new dimension to the Highlanders’ attack.
Ajaraie nearly broke the deadlock when he combined well with Dinesh Singh, finding space in the penalty area, but his right-footed effort lacked the necessary power. Mohammedan SC responded with their own threat, as substitute Sagolsem Bikash Singh’s attempt from outside the box narrowly missed the target.
The match seemed destined for a draw as both teams continued to create chances without success. Jithin’s persistent runs down the left for NorthEast United and Alexis Gomez’s long-range effort for Mohammedan SC in the 82nd minute both came close but failed to change the scoreline.
Stoppage Time Drama
Just when it appeared the teams would share the spoils, NorthEast United found a breakthrough in the 94th minute. Substitute Thoi Singh delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the box, where Alaeddine Ajaraie was waiting. The Moroccan forward, who had been a constant threat since his introduction in the 57th minute, made no mistake from close range, slotting home the winner and sending the away fans into raptures.
Looking Ahead
This opening day victory will serve as a significant morale boost for NorthEast United as they prepare for their next challenge against reigning ISL Shield winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant on September 23. Mohammedan Sporting, despite the disappointment, showed promise in their ISL debut and will look to bounce back when they host FC Goa on September 21.
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