NorthEast United FC are gearing up for a decisive Group ‘B’ encounter against Jamshedpur FC in the AIFF Super Cup 2025, set to take place at the GMC Athletic Stadium, Bambolim, on Wednesday.
After a thrilling 2–2 draw in their opener against Inter Kashi FC, the Highlanders are determined to secure their first win of the tournament. Jamshedpur FC, meanwhile, will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing 0–2 loss to FC Goa in their opening fixture.
Benali Confident, Calls for Focus and Tactical Discipline
Ahead of the match, NorthEast United’s head coach Juan Pedro Benali emphasized the importance of learning from past performances and maintaining focus.
Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa Eye Successive Wins Against Inter Kashi
“We hope we’ve learnt from our past matches and are fully focused on the game ahead. We know Jamshedpur FC very well, and they know us too. It’s going to be a tactical battle, and we’re ready to give everything on the pitch,” said Benali.
Ajaraie in Red-Hot Form
Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie, the star of NorthEast United’s Durand Cup-winning campaign, continued his scoring form with a goal against Inter Kashi. The 32-year-old, who claimed both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball in the Durand Cup with eight goals and four assists, boasts a formidable record versus Jamshedpur FC — four goals and one assist in four appearances — and will be eager to extend that streak.
Strong Supporting Cast and Defensive Backbone
Ajaraie will once again be supported by the club’s talented foreign contingent — Jairo Samperio (2 goals, 1 assist), Andy Rodriguez (2 goals, 2 assists), and Chema Núñez (1 assist) — alongside a promising Indian lineup featuring Jithin MS, Parthib Gogoi, Thoi Singh, Lalrinzuala, and Lalbiakdika.
Captain Michel Zabaco, who netted a towering header in the previous match, will lead the defensive line alongside Asheer Akhtar, Tondonba Singh, Redeem Tlang, Buanthanglun Samte, and Dinesh Singh, with Gurmeet Singh in goal. In midfield, Rodriguez remains the creative hub, supported by Mayakkannan and India international Macarton Nickson.
Highlanders Aim for Semifinal Push
With the group stage heating up, NorthEast United FC will be determined to collect all three points and strengthen their semifinal qualification hopes in the AIFF Super Cup 2025.