NorthEast United FC storm past Chennaiyin FC with a commanding 3-0 win

by Chittu Shetty March 4, 2025

NorthEast United FC returned to winning ways with a dominant 3-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.

The Highlanders wasted no time, taking the lead early through Nestor Albiach before Jithin MS and Alaaeddine Ajaraie added their names to the scoresheet in a stunning first-half performance. Despite Chennaiyin FC creating a few openings in the second half, they failed to capitalize, allowing NorthEast United FC to seal a crucial win that takes them to 35 points from 23 matches — officially securing their place in the playoffs for the first time since the 2020-21 campaign.

From the opening whistle, NorthEast United FC showed intent, driving forward with purpose. In the 5th minute, Jithin MS tested Chennaiyin goalkeeper Mohammed Nawaz with an early effort. Just two minutes later, Ajaraie’s brilliant flick found Nestor Albiach, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner to give the visitors the lead.

Chennaiyin FC’s night went from bad to worse in the 26th minute when NorthEast struck again. Mohammed Ali Bemammer exchanged passes with Jithin MS before releasing Ajaraie in space. The Moroccan found Jithin’s well-timed run, and the winger made no mistake, capping off a slick move with a composed finish.

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NorthEast United FC’s relentless pressure continued, and they made it 3-0 in the 38th minute. Jithin once again found space down the left flank, crossing into the box where Ajaraie’s initial shot was blocked by Ryan Edwards. However, the Moroccan reacted quickest, pouncing on the rebound to net his 21st goal of the season.

Ajaraie nearly added another just before halftime, receiving a delicate chip from Nestor, but his effort narrowly cleared the crossbar. Chennaiyin managed a rare attempt on target through Vincy Barretto, but Gurmeet was alert to the danger, ensuring the Highlanders’ clean sheet remained intact.

The second half saw Chennaiyin FC coach Owen Coyle ring the changes, bringing on Lukas Brambilla, Jitendra Singh, and Laldinpuia in search of a comeback. Brambilla almost made an immediate impact, forcing a sharp save from Gurmeet after being set up by Connor Shields.

Chennaiyin FC thought they had pulled one back in the 78th minute when Wilmar found the net from a Brambilla pass, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Moments later, the home side’s hopes were further dashed when Ryan Edwards received his second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Ajaraie near the penalty area, leaving Chennaiyin with 10 men.

Despite pushing forward in the final minutes, Chennaiyin lacked cutting edge in front of goal, ensuring NorthEast United FC registered their seventh clean sheet of the season.

Key Performer of the Match
Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United FC)

Ajaraie was the driving force behind NorthEast United FC’s victory, contributing a goal and two assists. His creativity shone throughout the game, creating four key chances and completing 13 of his 15 attempted passes. His influence was instrumental, making him the clear standout on the night.

FT: NorthEast United FC 3 (Nestor Albiach 7’, Jithin MS 26’, Alaaeddine Ajaraie 38’) – 0 Chennaiyin FC

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