Alaaeddine Ajaraie hat-trick powers NEUFC to winning start in Durand Cup

Shillong: Defending champions NorthEast United FC began their 134th IndianOil Durand Cup campaign in emphatic fashion, securing a convincing 3-1 win over Malaysian Armed Forces FT (ATM FA) in their Group E opener, here at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie, the top scorer from last season’s ISL, starred for the Highlanders with a stunning hat-trick (23’, 29’, 70’) to kick off the title defence in style. Mohammad Amir’s 88th-minute strike was a mere consolation for the visitors.

NEUFC head coach Juan Pedro Benali opted for his familiar 4-3-3 formation, with skipper Miguel Zabaco anchoring the defence and Dipesh Chauhan in goal. Up front, the trio of Ajaraie, Jithin M.S., and Parthib Gogoi spearheaded the attack. ATM FA, under coach Mohamad Khairil Hafiz Mohd. Zanggi made five changes from their previous outing against Shillong Lajong FC, with Hairi, Nasir Yasa, and Ibrahim Muhamat forming the attacking line, and Mohamad Faizal Hussin starting in goal.

Debutants Ladakh FC made a dream start to their maiden Durand Cup campaign by holding seasoned Nepalese side Tribhuvan Army FC to a 1–1 draw in a hard-fought Group C encounter at the JRD Tata Sports Complex, Jamshedpur.  Agencies

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