NorthEast United FC and Inter Kashi Battle to a 2-2 Draw in Bambolim

by Chandler D'silva October 27, 2025

Bambolim, Goa (October 26): NorthEast United FC were held to a 2-2 draw by Inter Kashi in their Group B clash of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim on Sunday. On a rain-soaked evening, both teams showcased grit and attacking flair in an evenly contested encounter.

Inter Kashi, featuring an all-Indian lineup, stunned the Durand Cup champions early in the game. Just five minutes in, Harmanpreet Singh pounced on a loose ball inside the box to give the I-League side an early advantage. The Highlanders, however, responded quickly and began to take control of possession, with Spanish midfielders Chema Núñez and Andy Rodríguez dictating the tempo.

Their persistence was rewarded in the 18th minute when Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie fired home a composed finish from Tondonba Singh’s curling cross to make it 1-1. NorthEast United continued to apply pressure and were rewarded again before halftime, as captain Miguel Zabaco rose highest to head in a well-delivered corner in the 40th minute, giving his side a 2-1 lead going into the break.

After halftime, NorthEast looked confident and nearly extended their advantage when Andy Rodríguez’s free kick narrowly missed the target. But as the game progressed and the rain persisted, Inter Kashi began to grow in confidence. Sumeet Passi’s long-range effort came close in the 66th minute, signalling their intent.

The equaliser arrived in the 74th minute when Karthik Panicker capitalised on a defensive lapse to calmly slot past goalkeeper Mirshad Michu, bringing Inter Kashi back on level terms. Despite late chances for NorthEast through Thoi Singh and Redeem Tlang, the I-League champions held firm to secure a well-earned draw.

Both sides will take valuable lessons from the contest as the Group B race begins to take shape, with NorthEast showing flashes of their attacking potential and Inter Kashi proving their resilience against top-tier opposition.

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