Odisha vs NorthEast United ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Monday as a last-gasp goal from Isak Vanlalruatfela denied NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) a crucial victory.
Despite Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s record-equalling brace, Odisha FC’s resilience ensured they salvaged a point. With this result, NEUFC has now dropped 17 points from winning positions this season. However, Ajaraie’s two goals brought his season tally to 18, matching the ISL’s highest individual goal record held by Ferran Corominas (2017-18) and Bartholomew Ogbeche (2021-22).
First-Half Action: Missed Opportunities and Strong Defense
The opening half saw both teams create promising chances but fail to convert. NEUFC came close after the drinks break when Macarton Nickson played a superb through ball to Jithin MS on the right. The winger squared it to Nestor Albiach, but Odisha FC’s Mourtada Fall executed a brilliant tackle to deny him a goal-scoring opportunity.
Second-Half Drama: Goals Galore and a Late Equalizer
The second half saw a surge in attacking intent as both sides pushed for the lead. Odisha FC’s Hugo Boumous and Isak Vanlalruatfela came close, while Michel Zabaco and Nestor missed key chances for NorthEast United.
Ajaraie Strikes First for NEUFC
NEUFC finally broke the deadlock in the 67th minute. Redeem Tlang played a short corner to Buanthanglun Samte, who delivered an accurate cross into the box. Ajaraie made no mistake in slotting it home at the far post, marking his 17th goal of the season and putting NEUFC in front.
Thoiba Singh Brings Odisha FC Level
Odisha FC responded in the 78th minute when Isak Vanlalruatfela sent in a precise cross from the left wing. Thoiba Singh met it perfectly, guiding the ball past Gurmeet Singh to level the score at 1-1.
Ajaraie Restores NEUFC’s Lead
NEUFC regained the lead in the 83rd minute as Ajaraie showcased his striking intelligence. Nestor delivered a well-placed free-kick, and Ajaraie timed his run perfectly, heading the ball past Odisha’s goalkeeper Amrinder Singh to register his 18th goal of the season.
Isak’s Last-Minute Equalizer Stuns NEUFC
Just when it seemed that NEUFC would take all three points, Odisha FC found a dramatic equalizer in stoppage time (90+3’). Isak Vanlalruatfela and Mauricio combined beautifully, with the youngster slotting the ball into the bottom left corner, securing a crucial draw for Odisha FC.
Summary of Goals
- 67’ | Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NEUFC): Converted a cross from Buanthanglun Samte at the far post.
- 78’ | Thoiba Singh (Odisha FC): Finished a precise cross from Isak Vanlalruatfela.
- 83’ | Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NEUFC): Headed in a free-kick from Nestor to restore NEUFC’s lead.
- 90+3’ | Isak Vanlalruatfela (Odisha FC): Slotted home a crucial equalizer after combining with Mauricio.
Final Whistle: A Hard-Fought Draw with Mixed Emotions
The match ended in a 2-2 stalemate, leaving both teams with a mix of relief and frustration. While Odisha FC celebrated a dramatic comeback, NEUFC will be left ruing yet another missed opportunity to secure a victory.
Key Takeaways from the Match:
- Alaaeddine Ajaraie equaled the all-time ISL season goal record with 18 goals.
- NEUFC has dropped 17 points from winning positions this season.
- Odisha FC’s Isak Vanlalruatfela played a crucial role with a goal and an assist.
- Both teams remain in the race for playoff spots as the ISL season heats up.
This pulsating encounter once again highlighted the unpredictability of the ISL, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. With crucial fixtures ahead, both teams will need to fine-tune their performances to stay in contention for the league title.
