NorthEast United FC and Odisha FC battled to an entertaining 2-2 draw in their Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 clash at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Monday. Despite a record-equalling brace from Alaaeddine Ajaraie, the Highlanders were unable to hold onto their lead, with late heroics from Odisha ensuring the points were shared.
Ajaraie’s two goals took his season tally to 18, matching the all-time ISL record for most goals in a single season, set by Ferran Corominas (2017-18) and Bartholomew Ogbeche (2021-22). However, the result meant NorthEast United has now dropped 17 points from winning positions this season, a statistic that will concern their fans.
A Match Full of Twists
The first half saw both teams creating promising chances, but Odisha FC’s defensive resilience, highlighted by a crucial tackle from Mourtada Fall to deny Nestor Albiach, kept the scoreline intact.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 67th minute when NorthEast United’s Redeem Tlang played a short corner to Buanthanglun Samte, whose pinpoint cross found Ajaraie at the far post. The Moroccan striker made no mistake, calmly slotting home to give the visitors the lead.
However, Odisha responded swiftly, equalizing in the 78th minute when Thoiba Singh latched onto a perfect cross from Isak Vanlalruatfela to beat goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh.
With momentum shifting back and forth, NorthEast regained the lead in the 83rd minute. Nestor Albiach’s precise free-kick found Ajaraie, who evaded his marker and powered a header past Odisha’s keeper Amrinder Singh to put the Highlanders 2-1 up.
Last-Minute Drama
Just when it seemed NorthEast United had secured a crucial victory, Odisha FC struck in stoppage time. In the 93rd minute, Isak combined beautifully with Mauricio before slotting the ball into the bottom left corner, denying the visitors all three points.
The final whistle blew soon after, with both teams having to settle for a draw despite a thrilling encounter. While Ajaraie’s milestone will be celebrated, NorthEast United’s continued struggles in maintaining leads remain a major concern as the season progresses.
