NorthEast United FC wrapped up their Durand Cup group stage campaign with a 2-2 draw against Rangdajied United FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Monday.
Bekey Oram (24’) and Jairo Samperio (76’) netted their first goals for the Highlanders, who fought back from a 1-2 deficit to finish top of Group E with seven points from three matches. The result had no bearing on their quarterfinal qualification, which was already secured before kick-off.
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali rang in the changes, with only Chema Nunez retaining his place from the win over Shillong Lajong FC. The match saw senior team debuts for goalkeeper Arman Tamang and first starts for Robin Yadav, Mohammed Arshaf and Jairo.
NorthEast took early control, dictating tempo through Chema’s creativity. In the 23rd minute, his perfectly weighted through ball sent Thoi Singh clear, only for the winger to be fouled inside the box. Oram stepped up and calmly slotted home from the spot for his maiden senior goal.
Rangdajied hit back through Lawphniaw (32’) and Umdor (44’) to lead at the break.
Benali’s triple change on the hour – bringing in Alaaeddine Ajaraie, Lalbiakdika and Fredy Chawngthansanga – shifted momentum. The equaliser came when Lalbiakdika beat his man on the left and fed Macarton Nickson, whose low cross was cleverly dummied by Jairo for Ajaraie. The Moroccan returned the ball into Jairo’s path for a composed finish.
Tamang marked his debut with a superb late save to deny Rangdajied, while the Highlanders pressed for a winner but settled for a point.
