Guwahati, October 19, 2026. NorthEast United defeated Kerala Blasters 4-1 at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Sunday, with Alaaeddine Ajaraie scoring twice in the Indian Super League encounter.
Antonio Moyano and CK Aman also scored for the hosts. Momo Yansane netted Kerala Blasters’ only goal, but the visitors could not sustain their second-half recovery. The result gave NorthEast United all three points in front of their home supporters.
Ajaraie Gives NorthEast United an Early Advantage
Kerala Blasters head coach Ashley Westwood started with a five-man defence. NorthEast United still found space behind the visitors’ back line, using direct passes and quick attacking runs.
The opening goal came in the 15th minute. Eneko Satrustegui sent a long pass forward, and Ajaraie timed his movement to reach it before rounding goalkeeper Arsh Anwer Shaikh and finishing.
Jithin MS added pressure from the flank as the hosts continued to create problems for Kerala’s defence.
Moyano Punishes a Defensive Mistake
Kerala had an opportunity when Adrian Luna delivered a dangerous ball following a short corner, but Amey Ranawade failed to convert.
At the other end, Arsh made several saves to keep the visitors within reach. However, NorthEast United doubled their advantage before half-time when Moyano took advantage of a defensive mistake.
The hosts entered the break leading 2-0, leaving Kerala needing a stronger attacking response.
Luna and Yansane Give Kerala Brief Hope
Westwood introduced Korou Singh and Sandeep Singh after the interval. The changes helped Kerala generate more attacking activity.
Their breakthrough arrived in the 60th minute. Luna supplied a backheel pass to Yansane, who finished to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
Kerala began to threaten more regularly, with Luna linking play in attack and Freddy trying his luck from distance. For a brief period, the visitors had a route back into the match.
Ajaraie’s Second Ends the Comeback Attempt
NorthEast United responded with another goal from Ajaraie. His curling finish restored the two-goal advantage and stopped Kerala’s recovery.
Aman then scored in the 82nd minute to make it 4-1. NorthEast United finished with goals from three players, while Kerala were left to assess repeated mistakes in defence.
Why Kerala Blasters Lost Control
Kerala’s difficulties extended beyond the goals conceded. NorthEast United’s pressing disrupted their passing, while Jithin’s movement and Ajaraie’s runs repeatedly tested their defensive positioning.
The Blasters struggled to build consistent attacks through the flanks and lost possession too easily. Their improvement after half-time produced a goal, but further defensive errors prevented them from turning that spell into a sustained comeback.
What Comes Next for Kerala Blasters?
The defeat left Kerala Blasters with three points from two matches. They stood sixth after Sunday’s game, with a goal difference of minus one.
Kerala are scheduled to face Mumbai City FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on October 25, their first home fixture of the season. That match offers an opportunity to respond, with defensive organisation likely to be a central concern after conceding four in Guwahati.
