NorthEast United FC Dominates Karbi Anglong with 4-1 Victory in Durand Cup

In a stunning display of skill, NorthEast United FC triumphed over Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC with a 4-1 victory in the Durand Cup. Alaaeddine Ajaraie shone with two goals, while substitutes Macarton Louis Nickson and Etyan Gonzalez Morales contributed to the scoreline. This win not only reinforces NorthEast's position in the knockout stages but also extends their unbeaten run to 14 matches. The match featured a thrilling back-and-forth, with both teams showcasing their talents. Discover how NorthEast United maintained their dominance and what this victory means for their campaign.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 9, 2026, 07:59 IST

NorthEast United FC's Commanding Win

Guwahati (Assam) [India], August 9: In a thrilling encounter at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, NorthEast United FC showcased their prowess by defeating Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC 4-1 in a Group F match of the 135th Durand Cup. Alaaeddine Ajaraie led the charge with two goals, while substitutes Macarton Louis Nickson and debutant Etyan Gonzalez Morales added to the scoreline.

This victory not only solidified NorthEast United's position in the knockout stages but also extended their unbeaten streak in the Durand Cup to 14 matches, a remarkable feat since their last loss in 2023.

Head coach Juan Pedro Benali opted for an aggressive 4-2-4 formation, allowing his team to dominate possession and keep Karbi Anglong on the defensive from the outset.

The breakthrough came in the seventh minute when a foul on Ajaraie led to a penalty, which he converted effortlessly, sending goalkeeper Jaspreet Singh the wrong way.

NorthEast continued to apply pressure, with Redeem Tlang narrowly missing a chance to double the lead. Despite their dominance, Karbi Anglong managed to equalize in the 28th minute through Junior Onguene Nkengue, who capitalized on a defensive error.

After halftime, Benali made strategic substitutions that quickly paid off. Just three minutes into the second half, Gogoi assisted Ajaraie, who scored his fifth goal of the tournament, restoring NorthEast's lead.

The pace of the game intensified, with both teams seeking opportunities. Ajaraie nearly completed a hat-trick, but his header went wide. Karbi Anglong's Nkengue also threatened with a long-range shot that was saved by NorthEast's goalkeeper Dipesh Chauhan.

As the match progressed, Benali introduced Etyan, who soon made an impact. NorthEast found their third goal in the 83rd minute when Macarton scored with a well-placed header from a cross.

In the dying moments of the match, Etyan marked his debut with a goal, tapping in a low cross from Abdul Rabeeh, sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory for the defending champions.

NorthEast United's second-half performance was crucial, demonstrating the effectiveness of Benali's substitutions and maintaining their unbeaten status in the tournament.