NorthEast United and Odisha FC End in Goalless Stalemate

In a tightly contested match, NorthEast United and Odisha FC ended in a goalless draw at Kalinga Stadium. Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie had a chance to secure victory but missed a penalty kick that hit the woodwork. Both teams created opportunities, but neither could find the back of the net. The match featured several substitutions and tactical changes, with late drama as NorthEast United sought a winner. This result leaves NorthEast United unable to extend their lead at the top of the table, making for an intriguing season ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 24, 2026, 23:41 IST

NorthEast United Held to Goalless Draw

Bhubaneshwar (Odisha) [India], October 24: In a recent Indian Super League (ISL) match at Kalinga Stadium, NorthEast United faced Odisha FC, resulting in a scoreless draw. Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie had a chance to secure a win for his team but missed a penalty kick after Stephen Eze was penalized for a handball, hitting the crossbar instead.

The first significant opportunity for NorthEast United came early in the fifth minute when Nikola Ninković connected with a well-placed cross from Jithin MS, but his shot was saved by Odisha's goalkeeper, Hrithik Tiwari. Odisha responded shortly after with Everton Nascimento attempting a long-range shot from 35 yards, which went off target. NorthEast United threatened again when Ajaraie received a perfectly timed through ball, but once more, Tiwari was there to make the save.

Match Substitutions and Tactical Changes

In the second half, both teams made strategic substitutions to find a breakthrough. Odisha brought on Nandhakumar Sekar for Jeremy Zohminghlua in the 67th minute, while NorthEast United substituted Parthib Gogoi and Ethyan González for Jithin MS and Nikola Ninković shortly after. Odisha's coach, TG Purushothaman, also introduced Rahim Ali and Manuel Molina for Mahmoud Eid and Giorgi Aburjania. Redeem Tlang replaced Macarton Nickson in the 86th minute for NorthEast United, and Imran Khan came on for Lalrinfela Khiangte just before the end of regulation time.

Late Stoppage Time Drama

As the match neared its conclusion, NorthEast United pushed for a late goal. In the first minute of added time, Moyano had a chance but sent his curling shot wide after being assisted by substitute Tlang. A handball by Eze in the box during a corner from Gogoi led to a penalty decision by referee K. Ramdasan deep into stoppage time. Ajaraie took the penalty, but his shot hit the woodwork, marking the end of the match without a winner and denying NorthEast United the opportunity to gain three points and extend their lead at the top of the table.