NorthEast United FC secured an emphatic 4-1 victory over Hyderabad FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday, completing the league double over their opponents in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.
The Highlanders ended their streak of four consecutive draws with a commanding performance, marking their first win in five matches. Goals from Guillermo Fernandez, Alaaeddine Ajaraie, Asheer Akhtar, and Mohammed Ali Bemammer ensured a dominant display at home.
NorthEast United started aggressively and capitalized on their early pressure in the 17th minute. Guillermo Fernandez pounced on a defensive mistake from Abdul Rabeeh and slotted the ball past Hyderabad FC goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh to open the scoring.
Just before halftime, the hosts doubled their lead in spectacular fashion. Alaaeddine Ajaraie fired a powerful free-kick into the top corner, leaving Arshdeep with no chance and giving the Highlanders a comfortable 2-0 cushion at the break.
Hyderabad FC showed signs of life in the second half, pulling a goal back in the 70th minute. Chhunga Hmar delivered a well-placed free-kick into the box, and with NorthEast United failing to clear their lines, Manoj Mohammed capitalized to make it 2-1.
However, any hopes of a comeback were short-lived as NorthEast United restored their two-goal advantage just nine minutes later. A well-delivered Nestor corner saw Ajaraie’s initial shot saved by Arshdeep, but Asheer Akhtar was quick to react, heading the rebound into the net to make it 3-1.
The Highlanders put the result beyond doubt in the 89th minute when Mohammed Ali Bemammer unleashed a stunning long-range strike from outside the box. His powerful shot flew past Arshdeep, sealing an impressive 4-1 victory for the hosts.
With this crucial win, NorthEast United FC not only completed the double over Hyderabad FC but also boosted their confidence as they look to build momentum for the remainder of the season.