Bodoland FC vs NorthEast United, Durand Cup 2024: Comfortable 0-2 win for NorthEast in first match

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NorthEast United secured a victory in the opening match of Group E in the Durand Cup 2024, thanks to two second-half goals by Jithin M.S and Ankith Padmanabhan. The match was held at the SAI Stadium.

Bodoland FC's Head Coach Khlain Prykhat Syiemjieh fielded a strong lineup, including Ghanaians Benjamin Techie, Joe Aidoo, and Cameroonian striker Zacharie Mbenda, with another Ghanaian, Frank Nana Kofi, in defense.

NorthEast United, under Head Coach Juan Pedro Benali, played in a 3-5-2 formation, featuring new signings Mayakannan Muthu, Guillermo Fernandez Hierro, and U-23 Moroccan international Hamza Regragui. The first half was closely contested, with both teams having chances, but NorthEast United appeared more threatening.

The trio of Nestor Albiach, Jithin M.S, and Parthib Gogoi showed creativity, with Nestor posing a particular threat from set pieces. Despite opportunities, including a chance for Zacharie Mbenda and two disallowed goals for NorthEast United, the first half ended scoreless.

In the second half, NorthEast United quickly took control, scoring within four minutes when Jithin M.S skillfully finished past the Bodoland goalkeeper. Although Bodoland created some chances, their attack struggled, and they had only one shot on target despite 15 attempts.

NorthEast United sealed the win in injury time with a counter-attack, as Phalguni Singh set up Ankith Padmanabhan to score, securing all three points and victory in the all-Assam derby.