In a stunning display, NorthEast United FC, the reigning champions, kicked off their campaign in the 135th Durand Cup with a remarkable 6-0 win against Bodoland FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Saturday. Star player Alaaeddine Ajaraie shone brightly, netting a hat-trick, while teammates Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia, Redeem Tlang, and Antonio Moyano also contributed to the scoreline, marking a perfect start to their title defense.

Under the guidance of head coach Juan Pedro Benali, NorthEast United adopted a 4-4-2 formation, pairing Ajaraie with Lalrinzuala in the forward line. In contrast, Bodoland FC's coach Vikash Panthi set up a 4-2-3-1 formation with Robinson Blandon Rendon leading the attack. The Highlanders quickly asserted their dominance, controlling possession and setting the pace of the game. Ajaraie was particularly active, creating an early chance with a cross that Macarton Louis Nickson could only direct at goalkeeper Birkhang Daimary.

NorthEast nearly took the lead in the eighth minute when Jithin M.S. made a strong run down the left flank, passing to Lalrinzuala, whose flick found Mohammed Arshaf, but the midfielder's shot went over the bar. The duo of Jithin and Lalrinzuala kept pressuring the Bodoland defense, although defenders Gaurav Bohara, Urjoy Brahma, and Didwm Hazowary held firm to prevent an early goal.

Despite their control, it wasn't until first-half stoppage time that NorthEast broke the deadlock. After Bodoland lost possession, Ajaraie showcased his skill in the penalty area, calmly finishing with a left-footed shot past the advancing goalkeeper. At halftime, NorthEast led with 58% possession and nine shots, five of which were on target, while Bodoland managed only two attempts.

Bodoland started the second half with more energy, winning an early corner and showing intent. However, NorthEast quickly regained control and doubled their lead in the 58th minute. Mohammed Arshaf delivered a precise through ball to Jithin, whose low cross was converted by Lalrinzuala from close range. Ajaraie scored his second just nine minutes later, capitalizing on a defensive error to lift the ball over Daimary, making it 3-0.

NorthEast continued their offensive onslaught, with substitute Parthib Gogoi nearly scoring with a header. The fourth goal came in the 70th minute when Macarton set up Redeem Tlang, who scored his first goal of the tournament. Despite the scoreline, Bodoland fought back, with defender Shubham Sarangi making crucial interventions.

Ajaraie completed his hat-trick in the 86th minute, showcasing his skill by beating two defenders and finishing with precision into the far corner. In stoppage time, he assisted Parthib Gogoi, who selflessly passed to Antonio Moyano for the final goal, sealing a comprehensive 6-0 victory.