Guwahati, August 1: Defending champions NorthEast United FC began their 135th IndianOil Durand Cup campaign in emphatic fashion, thrashing Bodoland FC 6-0 in their Group F opener at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Saturday.
A sensational hat-trick from Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie inspired the Highlanders to a dominant victory in front of 20,108 spectators, with club owner John Abraham in attendance. Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia, Redeem Tlang and debutant Antonio Moyano also found the net as NorthEast made an early statement in their bid for a third consecutive Durand Cup title.
NorthEast controlled possession from the outset but had to wait until first-half stoppage time to break the deadlock. Ajaraie capitalised on a defensive error, calmly slotting home in the 45+3rd minute after a composed first touch inside the penalty area.
The hosts took complete control after the break. Lalrinzuala doubled the lead in the 58th minute, finishing off a low cross from Jithin M.S. following an incisive attacking move. Ajaraie added his second nine minutes later, reacting quickest inside the box to delicately chip the ball over goalkeeper Birkhang Daimary.
Redeem Tlang made it 4-0 in the 70th minute, marking his 100th appearance for NorthEast United with a well-taken finish after being played through by Macarton Louis Nickson.
Ajaraie completed his hat-trick in the 86th minute, weaving past defenders before placing a clinical finish into the far corner. Deep into stoppage time, the Moroccan turned provider, setting up Antonio Moyano, who tapped home on his debut to complete the scoring.
The match also marked the official NorthEast United debuts of Moyano, Abdul Rabeeh and Thoiba Singh, the latter earning his senior bow after progressing through the club’s reserve setup.
With attacking flair, defensive solidity and clinical finishing, NorthEast United delivered a commanding performance to launch their title defence in style.
