Ajaraie Hat-Trick Sparks Stunning Comeback as NorthEast United Reach Durand Cup Semi-finals

by Chandler D'silva August 18, 2026

NorthEast United FC produced one of the comeback performances of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup, overturning a 2-1 half-time deficit to defeat Shillong Lajong FC 5-2 in a thrilling Northeastern derby at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Monday, August 17.

The Highlanders were inspired by a sensational hat-trick from Alaaeddine Ajaraie, while Etyan Jesus Gonzalez Morales and Jithin M.S. also found the net as NorthEast United scored four times after the break to complete a remarkable turnaround and book their place in the semi-finals.

Heavy rain made conditions difficult from the outset, but NorthEast United adapted quickly and took the lead in the 11th minute. Ajaraie controlled a perfectly weighted long ball from Redeem Tlang, brilliantly worked his way past a defender and calmly finished to give the Highlanders an early advantage.

Shillong Lajong responded strongly and levelled the contest in the 20th minute. Figo Syndai found space in the final third before producing a composed finish to bring the home side back into the game.

The momentum then shifted towards the hosts. Jithin M.S. narrowly missed an opportunity for NorthEast before Shillong completed their comeback in the 34th minute. Jota led a rapid counter-attack, raced clear of the defence and rounded goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh before confidently slotting the ball into an empty net.

Shillong headed into half-time with a 2-1 advantage, having weathered NorthEast’s early pressure and made the most of their opportunities.

However, the second half belonged almost entirely to the Highlanders.

NorthEast restored parity in the 55th minute when Etyan Jesus Gonzalez Morales found the back of the net. Just three minutes later, Ajaraie struck again, clinically finishing another attacking move to put NorthEast United back in front at 3-2.

Shillong attempted to respond by throwing players forward and winning a series of corners, but NorthEast’s defence remained composed. The Highlanders also introduced fresh attacking options as Juan Pedro Benali looked to maintain the momentum.

Ajaraie then completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute, finishing confidently after being released by Jithin M.S. The goal took the Moroccan forward’s tally to six in the competition and put NorthEast firmly in control at 4-2.

With Shillong unable to find a way back into the contest, NorthEast continued to threaten on the counter. Their dominance was rewarded once again in the 79th minute when Jithin M.S. capped his impressive performance with a goal of his own to make it 5-2.

The Highlanders comfortably managed the closing stages despite further pressure from Shillong, securing one of the most emphatic victories of the knockout rounds.

The result completes the Durand Cup semi-final line-up. NorthEast United FC will join Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Sporting Club Delhi and East Bengal FC in the final four.

For Shillong Lajong, the defeat brings an end to an impressive campaign, while NorthEast United continue their pursuit of another Durand Cup title with Ajaraie and the rest of their attack firing on all cylinders.

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