NorthEast United vs BSF FT, Durand Cup 2024: Highlanders retain table-top position with 3-0 win

Add as a preferred source on Google

NorthEast United secured their second consecutive win in Group E of the Durand Cup 2024 with a 4-0 victory over Border Security Force (BSF) FT at the SAI Stadium. Guillermo Fernandez scored twice, while Jithin M.S added another goal.

Alaaeddine Ajaraie netted a penalty in the absolute dying moment of the match to ensure all three points for the Highlanders, who now lead the group with six points. BSF, on the other hand, suffered their second defeat in the tournament.

NorthEast United's coach, Juan Pedro Benali, rotated his squad, bringing in Dipesh Chauhan as goalkeeper, and giving starts to Robin Yadav and Bekey Oram. BSF Head Coach Gurjit Singh Mahato opted for a defense-oriented lineup against the ISL side.

The Highlanders took the lead in the eighth minute when Jithin M.S assisted new signing Guillermo Fernandez, who finished calmly for the opening goal. NorthEast doubled their lead shortly after, with Jithin M.S scoring from Guillermo's low cross. Despite continuous pressure from NorthEast, BSF managed to keep the score at 2-0 going into halftime.

Just two minutes into the second half, Guillermo completed his brace with a diving header from a chipped pass by Bemmamer. NorthEast maintained their dominance throughout the match, with BSF struggling to create any significant chances.

In the final moments of the game, Bemmamer was fouled in the box by Jitender Rawat, leading to a penalty that substitute Alaaeddine Ajaraie calmly converted, sealing the 4-0 win for the Highlanders.