ISL: Ajaraie powers NorthEast United to victory over Odisha- Talking Points

The Moroccan sensation Alaeddine Ajaraie continued his goal-scoring streak in his debut ISL season, scoring a brace and providing an assist against Odisha FC to help his team secure a full three points in a home game on Sunday.

NorthEast United completely dominated the first half and went into the halftime break with a solid 2-0 lead, thanks to a brace from their midfielder, Ajaraie.

Odisha had a good start to the second half, but they still fell short in the end, despite quality goals from Hugo Boumous and Diego Mauricio.

Here are five key takeaways from this interesting encounter:

#5 Odisha missed Jahouh

Odisha FC missed their star midfielder Ahmed Jahouh, who was suspended for this match due to a red card in his previous ISL game.

Jahouh is the key man in the defensive midfield position as he not only supports his defense but also has a remarkable ability to provide quality crosses to forwards making runs to build an attack.

In his absence, NorthEast United found gaps in the midfield and built their runs with ease, which hurt Odisha FC significantly, especially in the first half.

#4 NorthEast’s Dominance in Midfield

NorthEast United FC dominated midfield play for most of the game with high pressing and through balls from their wingers and midfielders.

Mohamed Bemammer was key in controlling the midfield for NorthEast, using his physical play to win small duels and turn over possession in his team's favor.

#3 The Dynamic Indian duo of Parthib and Jithin

The dynamic Indian duo of Parthib Gogoi and Jithin MS has been consistently performing for NorthEast, supporting the forwards through wing play and crosses.

Against Odisha FC, they also troubled the opponent's defense with sharp runs and dribbling, while consistently putting shots on target.

#2 Improved Second Half for Odisha

After being outplayed by NorthEast in the first half, Odisha FC made a few changes at halftime, including the introduction of Moroccan winger Hugo Boumous, which helped strengthen their midfield.

Hugo started to put NorthEast’s defense under pressure with his long balls and crosses, pushing back NorthEast's high press and giving Odisha breathing space. He also scored a goal with a solo run from the left flank.

In the dying minutes, Diego Mauricio added a thunderous free-kick goal to keep Odisha FC in the game.

#1 No stopping for Alaeddine Ajaraie

Moroccan midfielder Ajaraie continued his goal-scoring streak, taking it to seven consecutive matches with another brace, marking his second back-to-back brace this season.

Ajaraie displayed his finishing skills with two well-executed goals in the first half, maneuvering skillfully through Odisha FC's crowded defense.

He also assisted a goal in the second half, winning an aerial duel against Odisha’s full-back, bringing his season total to 13 goal contributions (9 goals, 4 assists) in just seven games.