Ajaraie's brace sends NorthEast United FC into the quarterfinals

Shillong: Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s double strike ensured defending champions NorthEast United FC overcome Shillong Lajong FC 2-1 in a thrilling NorthEast derby of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup which was played here at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and secure their place in the quarterfinals with a match to spare, as they have a better head to head record against Shillong Lajong.

Figo Syndai scored for Shillong Lajong. The Highlanders secured their second victory in Group E and have six points while Shillong Lajong have finished their group stage campaign also with six points from three matches. A point from the last match for NorthEast United will ensure that they qualify for the quarterfinals as clear group winners.

Head Coaches Juan Pedro Benali and Birendra Thapa fielded their strongest line ups for the all-important encounter making six and five changes respectively. The Spanish gaffer brought in goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh, new signing Jose Manuel Nunez Martin, Asheer Akhtar, Lalrinzuala, Redeem Tlang and Buanthanglun Samte while the home side brought in Kitboklang Khyriem, Saveme Tariang, Damaitphang Lyngdoh, Rudra Ved and Sheen Stevenson Sohktung. Agencies

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