Durand Cup: Ajaraie scores hat-trick in NorthEast United’s rout of Bodoland
NorthEast United FC defeated Bodoland FC 6-0 in their Durand Cup Group F opener at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium. Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie led the victory with a hat-trick in his return to the team.
Why it matters
The Durand Cup is one of India's oldest and most prestigious football tournaments, serving as a key event for domestic club development.
Defending champion NorthEast United FC kicked off its title defence by thrashing regional challenger Bodoland FC 6-0 in the Group F opener at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Saturday.
Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie marked his comeback to the team with a fine hat-trick. Lalrinzuala, and substitutes Redeem Tlang and Antonio Moyano added a goal each to complete a dominant display by the Highlanders.
Bodoland put up a disciplined performance for much of the first half, frustrating NorthEast United’s attacking efforts. Ajaraie broke the deadlock in the first-half stoppage time to give the host a 1-0 lead at the interval.
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