NorthEast United Dominates Odisha FC 5-1, Advances to Durand Cup Knockouts

NorthEast United triumphed over Odisha FC with a 5-1 victory at the Durand Cup, ensuring their spot in the knockouts. Jithin MS scored twice, with additional goals from Guillermo Fernandez, Thoi Singh, and an own goal by Tankadhar Bag. Paogoumang Singson netted Odisha's lone score.

NorthEast United cruised past Odisha FC 5-1 to enter the knockouts from Group E of the Durand Cup at the SAI Stadium on Friday. Jithin MS scored a brace, with Guillermo Fernandez and Thoi Singh each adding a goal for the Highlanders, and an own goal by Tankadhar Bag completing the tally. Paogoumang Singson scored the consolation for the Juggernauts, according to a Durand Cup press release.

With this victory, NorthEast United topped Group E with nine points from three matches, while Odisha FC concluded their campaign with three points. Manager Juan Pedro Benali fielded a strong lineup against Amit Rana's youthful Juggernauts, aiming for a knockout spot, whereas Odisha hoped for a morale-boosting finish. Mirshad M.K started in goal for The Highlanders, marking their third keeper in three matches.

Jithin MS struck twice within three minutes, destabilizing Odisha FC within the first 20 minutes. The Kerala winger first netted with a through ball, then capitalized on a defensive error for his second goal. Despite having better possession, Odisha could not create clear-cut chances, whereas NorthEast looked threatening with Jithin M.S finding spaces behind the defense.

Although Odisha appeared rejuvenated post-halftime, NorthEast extended their lead as Thoi Singh’s cross led to an own goal by Tankadhar Bag. Odisha's brightest moment came with Paogoumang Singson's long-range strike, but NorthEast responded with a goal from Guillermo Fernandez. Thoi Singh completed the rout, assisted by Mohammed Ali Bemmamer, as the Highlanders advanced to the knockouts for the second consecutive year.