NorthEast United FC Dominates Chennaiyin FC with 4-1 Victory in ISL
Match Overview
In a thrilling encounter at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, NorthEast United FC showcased their strength by defeating Chennaiyin FC 4-1 in the Indian Super League 2025-26 on May 10, 2026. Jairo Samperio was the standout player, netting two goals in the first half, while an own goal and a late effort from Lalbiakdika ensured a comprehensive victory for the Highlanders. Samperio's performance earned him the Player of the Match title as he marked his first goals in the league. This win propelled NorthEast United FC to ninth place in the standings with 13 points from 12 matches, while Chennaiyin FC lingered in 13th with nine points, just above the relegation zone.
The match kicked off with high energy, as NorthEast quickly earned a series of corners before Chennaiyin attempted to counter. However, it was the home team that struck first in the fifth minute. Goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh initiated a well-coordinated attack with a precise pass, leading to Jithin MS delivering a perfect cross for Jairo Samperio, who finished calmly to give the Highlanders a 1-0 lead.
NorthEast continued to apply pressure, with attempts from Tondonba Singh and Thoi Singh Huidrom, while Chennaiyin began to find their rhythm. Despite controlling the midfield, Chennaiyin struggled to create significant chances, with Gurmeet Singh remaining largely unchallenged. NorthEast, on the other hand, looked sharper, with Jairo and Andy Rodríguez forcing saves from Chennaiyin's goalkeeper, Mohammad Nawaz. Daniel Chima Chukwu had a chance for Chennaiyin but was thwarted by Gurmeet.
Just before halftime, NorthEast doubled their advantage. A defensive error from Mandar Rao Dessai allowed Jairo to seize the opportunity, finishing expertly into the far corner to make it 2-0 at the break.
Chennaiyin emerged from halftime with renewed vigor, with Lalrinliana Hnamte and Farukh Choudhary pushing forward. They created several chances, but Gurmeet's goalkeeping proved crucial in denying both Daniel Chima and Irfan Yadwad. As the match progressed, NorthEast struck again in the 70th minute. A slick move involving Macarton Nickson and Jithin MS resulted in a cutback, and in a bid to intercept, Chennaiyin defender Laldinliana R inadvertently scored an own goal, extending the lead to 3-0.
Chennaiyin managed to score in the 81st minute, with Laldinliana redeeming himself with a well-placed shot following a clever build-up involving Alberto Noguera. However, their hopes for a comeback were dashed shortly after. NorthEast sealed the match in the 90th minute when substitute Lalbiakdika took advantage of a goalkeeping blunder from Nawaz, allowing the ball to slip into the net.
In a match where every goal scorer marked their first in the Indian Super League, NorthEast United FC delivered a clinical performance, securing three vital points, while Chennaiyin FC was left to ponder their missed chances and defensive mistakes.