ISL 2024-25: NorthEast United Start Season With 1-0 Win over Debutant Mohammedan SC; Alaeddine Ajaraie Scores Injury-Time Winner

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NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Mohammedan SC (MSC) at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on September 16, thanks to a late winner by substitute Alaeddine Ajaraie in the dying moments of stoppage time.

The Moroccan, who came off the bench to replace Nestor Albiach, made an instant impact with his fresh legs and energy in midfield, giving NEUFC the cutting edge they needed. His 90+4 minute strike silenced the home crowd and secured all three points for the visitors.

The game started with both teams looking to assert dominance but it was a cagey affair with few clear-cut chances in the first half. Mohammedan SC enjoyed more of the ball, ending the game with 60 per cent possession but they struggled to make that dominance count. MSC midfielder Alexis Gomez was central to their attacking efforts, attempting to create opportunities from the flanks but NEUFC's disciplined defense held firm.

NorthEast United, under head coach Juan Pedro Benali, executed a well-organized pressing game that saw Mohammedan repeatedly lose possession in key areas. Despite a few promising opportunities, particularly from MS Jithin, NEUFC couldn't find the back of the net during regular time. Jithin, who was awarded the Player of the Match for his tireless running and creativity on the flanks, came close several times but lacked the clinical finishing touch.

As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Mohammedan SC looked set to secure a point from their debut ISL game. However, Alaeddine Ajaraie had other ideas. With NEUFC pushing for a winner, he latched onto a loose ball inside the box and calmly slotted it past MSC goalkeeper Padam Chhetri, sending the NEUFC bench into wild celebrations.

The defeat leaves Mohammedan SC at the bottom of the table, trailing their city rivals East Bengal, while NEUFC move up to fourth early in the ISL season. Despite the late heartbreak, Mohammedan can take solace in their overall performance, but they will need to find a way to convert their possession into goals if they are to climb up the standings. Meanwhile, NorthEast United will look to build on this momentum as they aim for a strong season.