NorthEast United FC defeated Mumbai City FC 3-0 at the Mumbai Football Arena on Monday in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season. This marked their first win against Mumbai City in their last seven meetings. Despite dominating possession with 65.2%, Mumbai City only managed three shots on target, while NorthEast United had seven. Although Mumbai made 31 crosses, they failed to convert any into significant chances.
Quick Fire Goal Sets the Tone
The match began with an early goal. In fact, NorthEast United scored within the first 46 seconds, setting a new record for the fastest goal in their ISL history. Alaaeddine Ajaraie broke VP Suhair’s previous record (1:42) from 2021. The visitors won the ball early and, after Parthib Gogoi delivered a perfect cross from the right, Ajaraie finished from close range to give them the lead. This strike ended Mumbai City’s four-match clean-sheet streak and became the second-fastest goal conceded in ISL history.
Missed Penalty and Rehenesh’s Crucial Saves
In the 25th minute, Ajaraie had a chance to double the lead with a penalty. The spot-kick was awarded after Hardik Bhatt’s handball in the box. However, Mumbai goalkeeper TP Rehenesh made a crucial diving save, denying the Highlanders a second goal. This was Rehenesh’s fourth penalty save in the competition and his first for Mumbai City FC.
Rehenesh continued to shine, making another important save in the 56th minute. Ajaraie fired a shot from near the center, but Rehenesh blocked it. The rebound fell to Ajaraie, who shot again, but Rehenesh was quick to deny him once more.
Ajaraie Strikes Again, Macarton Seals the Win
Ajaraie wasn’t finished yet. In the 83rd minute, he scored his second goal after a perfect assist from Macarton Nickson. Ajaraie was in the right place at the right time, drilling the ball into the bottom left corner. Just minutes later, in the 86th minute, Macarton added a third goal for NorthEast United. He finished with composure into the bottom right corner, sealing the win and leaving Mumbai City with no chance to recover.
Alaaeddine Ajaraie was the standout player for NorthEast United. He completed 16 out of 26 passes, made one tackle, two clearances, five crosses, and scored twice.
Looking ahead, Mumbai City FC will face East Bengal FC on January 6, while NorthEast United will play Mohammedan SC on January 3.
