Yesterday's Group E match in the Durand Cup between NorthEast United FC and the Malaysian Armed Forces - who emerged victorious?
In the opening match of the Durand Cup 2025-26, NorthEast United FC secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Malaysian Armed Forces FT (ATM FA), thanks to an outstanding hat-trick performance from Alaaeddine Ajaraie.
The match began with both teams pressing hard and battling for possession, setting the tone for an intense encounter. However, the first half was relatively even, with neither side creating any clear-cut chances early on.
The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when Andres Rodriguez delivered a through ball for Ajaraie to score the opening goal. Ajaraie's second goal came in the 29th minute, as a result of a sublime team move.
In the second half, NorthEast United FC continued to dominate, with Ajaraie scoring his hat-trick goal in the 70th minute. He danced past defenders and curled a majestic left-footed shot into the bottom corner. Despite the Malaysian Armed Forces showing more attacking intent in the final 10 minutes, they failed to capitalize due to poor finishing.
Ajaraie's first-half replacement, Lalbiakdika, had an opportunity to score in the 39th minute but was unable to convert. Muhammad Amir Faizal scored a consolation goal for the Malaysian Armed Forces in the 88th minute, but it was too little, too late for the team.
This victory against ATM FA helped NorthEast United FC build positive momentum early in the competition, highlighting their physical and technical readiness on the field. Ajaraie's hat-trick was the key highlight of the match, and a major factor in this 3-1 result.
The intensity of the match, where both teams battled hard for possession, illustrates the significant role sports play in maintaining health. Ajaraie's extraordinary hat-trick performance against ATM FA proclaimed NorthEast United FC's dominance in the Durand Cup, mirroring the strategic finesse often seen in the Premier League, one of the European-leagues. Despite a late consolation goal from Muhammad Amir Faizal, the victory over ATM FA cements a strong start for NorthEast United FC in the competition, with Ajaraie's performance being the match's standout moment.
