Bhubaneswar, Feb 3 (PTI) – Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s record-equalling double was not enough to secure three points for NorthEast United FC as Odisha FC staged a late comeback to force a 2-2 draw in their Indian Super League (ISL) clash on Monday.
Ajaraie struck twice in the 67th and 83rd minutes, equalling the record for the highest individual goals tally in an ISL season with 18 goals, a feat previously achieved by Ferran Corominas (2017-18) and Bartholomew Ogbeche (2021-22). However, crucial strikes from Thoiba Singh (78') and Isak Vanlalruatfela (90+3') ensured Odisha FC salvaged a point in front of their home crowd.
The match started at a measured pace but came to life after the first quarter. Odisha FC had an early opportunity when Diego Mauricio skillfully navigated his way into the box and set up Jerry Mawihmingthanga, only for the winger to miss a golden chance in front of an open goal. Moments later, Rahul KP’s powerful effort from the right forced NorthEast United's goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh into a vital save, as the home side began to build momentum.
NorthEast United responded strongly, with Macarton Nickson threading a brilliant pass to Jithin MS, who then squared it for Nestor Albiach. Just as the Spaniard prepared to strike, Odisha’s Mourtada Fall executed a perfectly timed tackle to deny him.
Following a goalless first half, the intensity ramped up. Odisha FC’s Hugo Boumous and Isak Vanlalruatfela came close to breaking the deadlock, while NorthEast United’s Michel Zabaco and Nestor Albiach squandered their chances.
Ajaraie eventually put NorthEast United ahead in the 67th minute. Redeem Tlang played a short corner to Buanthanglun Samte, who delivered an impeccable cross to the far post, where Ajaraie calmly slotted home his 17th goal of the season.
Odisha FC, however, responded swiftly. In the 78th minute, Isak provided a precise cross from the left, allowing Thoiba Singh to fire past Gurmeet and level the scores.
In the 83rd minute, Ajaraie restored NorthEast United’s lead, heading in a Nestor Albiach free-kick past Odisha goalkeeper Amrinder Singh. In an attempt to secure the win, coach Juan Pedro Benali introduced Parthib Gogoi and Hamza Regragui, while Odisha’s Sergio Lobera brought on Dorielton Gomes in search of an equalizer.
Just when it seemed NorthEast United would take home the win, Odisha FC had the final say. In the third minute of added time, Isak and Mauricio combined beautifully before Isak drilled the ball into the bottom left corner, denying NorthEast United victory and extending their frustrating run of dropping points from winning positions—17 so far this season.
With this result, NorthEast United missed out on a crucial win, while Odisha FC showcased resilience to earn a point in a thrilling encounter.
