Highlanders Triumph: NEUFC Shatters MCFC with Historic Win

NorthEast United FC made history by defeating Mumbai City FC 3-0 at the Mumbai Football Arena in the ISL 2024-25. Despite Mumbai's possession dominance, NEUFC's efficient play and a record-setting early goal by Ajaraie drove their triumph. The visitors excelled with clinical finishing, while Rehenesh's goalkeeping was a silver lining for Mumbai.

NorthEast United FC made waves in the Indian Super League 2024-25 by securing a 3-0 victory over Mumbai City FC at the Mumbai Football Arena. The win marked the Highlanders' first-ever triumph over the Islanders in their last seven encounters. While Mumbai City FC dominated with 65.2% possession, their efforts yielded only three shots on target against the visitors' seven.

The game began spectacularly for NEUFC with Ajaraie's goal just 46 seconds in, setting a new record for the fastest goal in the club's ISL history. The visitors capitalized on a mistake by Nikolaos Karelis, enabling Parthib Gogoi to deliver a perfect cross for Ajaraie to convert. This strike ended Mumbai's clean sheet streak and was the second-fastest goal conceded by them in ISL history.

Ajaraie continued to test Mumbai's defense, earning a penalty in the 25th minute due to a handball by Hardik Bhatt. However, Mumbai's goalkeeper TP Rehenesh managed a spectacular save to deny Ajaraie a second goal. Rehenesh's proficiency in goal was further demonstrated with a dual save in the 56th minute. Despite his efforts, Ajaraie eventually netted his second goal through a pass from Macarton Nickson, sealing the victory. Macarton added to the scoreline in the 86th minute, ensuring a resounding win for the Highlanders.

NEUFC and MCFC have their next matches lined up against Mohammedan SC on January 3 and East Bengal FC on January 6, respectively. This result positions NorthEast United FC strongly in the league as they continue their campaign.

(With inputs from agencies.)