ISL 2024-25: Isak Ralte's Injury-Time Strike Rescues Odisha FC in 2-2 Draw Against NorthEast United

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ISL 2024-25: Alaaeddine Ajaraie continued his prolific goal-scoring form in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, netting twice for NorthEast United, but Odisha FC fought back late to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Monday.

The match remained goalless in the first half, with both teams missing crucial chances. Odisha came close early on, with Diego Mauricio setting up Jerry Mawihmingthanga, only for the winger to miss from close range. NorthEast United also had an opportunity through Netor Albiach, but the Odisha defense held firm.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 67th minute when Ajaraie rose high to nod in a well-placed cross from Buanthanglun Samte. The Moroccan striker then doubled his tally in the 83rd minute, heading in another delivery from Nestor Albiach, bringing his season's goal count to 18-matching the all-time record for most goals in an ISL season, previously achieved by Ferran Corominas (2017-18) and Bartholomew Ogbeche (2021-22).

Odisha FC, however, showed resilience. They equalized for the first time in the 78th minute when Thoiba Singh Moirangthem capitalized on an Isak Vanlalruatfela cross to beat NorthEast keeper Gurmeet Singh. Just when it seemed NorthEast would hold on for a vital away win, Isak turned savior for Odisha, striking in the 93rd minute after a combination play with Mauricio to ensure the home side walked away with a point.

The result leaves Odisha FC in seventh place with 25 points from 18 matches, while NorthEast United, having dropped 17 points from winning positions this season, are fourth with 29 points, trailing third-placed FC Goa by four points.

Brief Score: Odisha FC 2-2 NorthEast United
(Thoiba Singh 78', Isak Vanlalruatfela 90+3' | Alaaeddine Ajaraie 67', 83')