Indian Super League: Odisha FC vs NorthEast United FC

on
Source: Indian Super League

Odisha FC Hold NorthEast United FC in Nail-Biting 2-2 Encounter

In the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC played out an exciting 2-2 draw at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Isak Vanlalruatfela's injury-time goal helped Odisha FC salvage a crucial point from the clash.

Match Highlights

  • Alaaeddine Ajaraie's Record-Breaking Performance: NorthEast United FC's star player Ajaraie scored a brace, reaching 18 goals for the season, equaling the ISL single-season scoring record held by Ferran Corominas (2017-18) and Bartholomew Ogbeche (2021-22).

  • Odisha FC's Stunning Comeback: Thoiba Singh Moirangthem netted an equalizer in the 78th minute before Isak's dramatic 90+3' goal secured a draw for the Kalinga Warriors.

  • Fast-Paced Action with Ups and Downs: Both teams created several chances but were kept in check by resilient defensive and goalkeeping efforts.

Match Overview

The first half started with both teams playing attacking football. Odisha FC's Diego Mauricio set up a golden chance for Jerry Mawihmingthanga, but he failed to convert. Soon after, NorthEast United FC's Rahul KP tested Odisha's goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh with a powerful strike.

In the second half, the game intensified. The deadlock was broken in the 67th minute when Buanthanglun Samte's pinpoint cross found Ajaraie, who slotted it home for his 17th goal of the season.

Odisha FC responded in the 78th minute as Thoiba Singh capitalized on Isak’s perfect cross to level the score. However, in the 83rd minute, Ajaraie put NorthEast United FC back in the lead with a well-placed header from Nestor’s free-kick.

In injury time (90+3'), Isak and Mauricio combined brilliantly before the youngster slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner to earn Odisha FC a crucial point.

Star Performer of the Match

Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United FC):

  • Scored two goals and created three chances.

  • Contributed defensively with two clearances.

  • His stellar performance made him the standout player of the match.

Upcoming Fixtures

  • Odisha FC: Faces FC Goa away on February 6.

  • NorthEast United FC: Hosts Mumbai City FC in Shillong on February 7.

Conclusion

This match was one of the most thrilling encounters of the ISL 2024-25 season. While Ajaraie's brace nearly sealed a win for NorthEast United FC, Isak's last-minute heroics ensured Odisha FC walked away with a vital point. Both teams now turn their focus to their next challenges as the playoff race intensifies.

Comments

Post a Comment