Bhubaneswar, October 24, 2026: NorthEast United FC were held to a goalless draw by Odisha FC in their Indian Super League (ISL) encounter at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Saturday. Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie missed a late penalty, denying the Highlanders a chance to secure all three points and extend their winning run.
NorthEast United started strongly and created their first clear opportunity in the fifth minute. Nikola Ninković connected with a cross from Jithin MS, but his right-footed effort was saved by Odisha goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari.
Odisha responded with a long-range attempt from Everton Nascimento. However, his effort from around 35 yards went wide. NorthEast United threatened again when Ajaraie broke through the Odisha defence, but Tiwari produced another save to keep the scores level.
Both teams made several substitutions in the second half as they searched for a breakthrough. Odisha introduced Nandhakumar Sekar in the 67th minute before bringing on Rahim Ali and Manuel Molina later in the game. NorthEast United responded by introducing Parthib Gogoi and Ethyan González to strengthen their attack.
Despite the changes, neither side managed to find the back of the net during regular time. NorthEast United pushed forward in the closing stages in search of a winner. In the first minute of added time, Moyano sent a curling effort wide after receiving a pass from substitute Redeem Tlang.
The Highlanders then earned a golden opportunity to take the lead when Odisha defender Stephen Eze was penalised for handball inside the penalty area. Referee K. Ramdasan awarded a penalty deep into stoppage time.
Ajaraie stepped up to take the spot-kick, but his effort struck the woodwork. The missed penalty proved to be the final action of the match, leaving both teams with a point each.
The result denied NorthEast United an opportunity to move three points clear at the top of the league table, while Odisha FC secured a valuable point at home.
