Buoyed by the goal, the Highlanders added more panache to their attack, with the offense keeping the Odisha backline extremely busy. NorthEast United almost doubled their lead when Ajaraie’s brilliantly weighted ball almost found Nestor.

However, the Spanish midfielder was slightly late arriving in the penalty area. Later, Ajaraie had a golden opportunity to add to their score when Buanthanglun Samte’s cross from a corner found Ajaraie in the box. The Moroccan easily lost his marker but his header went just over the target.

Nonetheless, Ajaraie eventually completed his double thanks to NorthEast United FC’s sensational press. Mohammed Bemammer gained possession in midfield and squared it to Jithin in space. He took a few touches before spraying the ball to Ajaraie in space on the left. With only Amrinder left to beat, the Moroccan made no mistake by doubling the lead in the 40th minute.

The visitors had to fight back and so assistant coach Anthony Fernandes turned to Hugo Boumous at the start of the second half. Alongside the midfield, Savior Gama and Thoiba Singh have also been brought in to freshen things up in defence.

The changes worked in favor of Odisha FC who scored a goal in the 60th minute when two of their substitutes – Gama and Boumous combined to break the Highlanders defense. Gama launched a brilliant ball towards Boumous, who dribbled past a few defenders before slotting it past Gurmeet Singh between the sticks.

The goal swung the momentum in favor of Odisha FC as they continued to push forward in search of more goals. With the substitutes bringing the necessary energy to the field.

However, the situation completely changed when Juan Pedro Benali decided to turn to his bench. He brought in Guillermo Fernandez to add more presence in attack for the Highlanders. The Spaniard, who has not been in his best form this season, kept his coach’s confidence by scoring the third goal on a cross from Ajaraie, against the run of play, in the 71st minute.

The last 10 minutes of the match saw Odisha FC throwing bodies forward and they deservedly scored a goal thanks to Mauricio’s exceptional free kick in the 83rd minute.

Despite Odisha FC’s late surge, Juan Pedro Benali’s men managed to hold on with aplomb and secured their third win of the current season.

Key player of the match: Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United FC)

The Moroccan sniper has been the signing of the season for the Highlanders. He continued his goalscoring prowess with another brace and an assist. Ajaraie also recorded two interceptions and four clearances. He completed 19 of his 27 pass attempts.

What next for the teams?

NorthEast United will travel to Bengaluru to face Bengaluru FC on November 8 while Odisha FC will return home to host Mohun Bagan Super Giant on November 10.

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