Guwahati, August 1: Defending champions NorthEast United FC made a dream start to their 135th IndianOil Durand Cup campaign with a commanding 6-0 victory over Bodoland FC in the opening Group F fixture at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Saturday. Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie starred with a sensational hat-trick as the Highlanders launched their title defence in emphatic fashion.
Ajaraie opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time after NorthEast dominated possession throughout the opening half but struggled to break down Bodoland’s resilient defence. The Highlanders entered the break with a deserved 1-0 lead after registering nine shots while restricting their opponents to just two attempts.
NorthEast took complete control after the restart. Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia doubled the lead in the 58th minute by converting Jithin M.S.’s low cross before Ajaraie netted his second goal in the 67th minute following a defensive lapse inside the Bodoland penalty area.
The defending champions continued to pile on the pressure, with Redeem Tlang adding the fourth goal in the 70th minute after being set up by Macarton Louis Nickson.
Ajaraie completed his hat-trick in the 86th minute with a composed finish after weaving past two defenders, capping an outstanding individual performance. Antonio Moyano then rounded off the scoring in stoppage time after being set up by Ajaraie, sealing an emphatic 6-0 victory for the Highlanders.
NorthEast United head coach Juan Pedro Benali fielded a 4-4-2 formation with Ajaraie and Lalrinzuala leading the attack, while Bodoland FC, coached by Vikash Panthi, adopted a 4-2-3-1 setup.
Despite showing moments of promise, Bodoland FC struggled to contain NorthEast’s relentless attacking play as the reigning champions showcased their quality and intent to retain the prestigious Durand Cup title.
Goals:
- NorthEast United FC: Alaaeddine Ajaraie (45+3′, 67′, 86′), Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia (58′), Redeem Tlang (70′), Antonio Moyano (90+1′)
The victory gives NorthEast United a perfect start to their Group F campaign as they continue their quest for back-to-back Durand Cup titles.
