NorthEast United blank out Kerala Blasters 2-0; enter ISL playoffs

NorthEast United FC have made it to the Indian Super League playoffs with a 2-0 win over Kerala Blasters in a match at the Tilak Maidan.

Needing just a point to qualify for their second-ever playoffs, the Highlanders attacked from the get-go.

Lalengmawia had another magnificent all-round performance while sitting in the middle of the park for NorthEast United FC. He had 73 touches of the ball, an impressive passing accuracy of 88% and scored a stunning goal from distance in the first half to double the Highlanders’ lead.

The Highlanders scored both their goals in the first half through Suhair Vadakkepeedika (34th) and Lalengmawia (45th).

Khalid Jamil also created history by becoming the first Indian to coach three or more league games and guide a side to the playoffs.

Jamil fielded an unchanged XI from their previous game.

Kerala Blasters had one change with Sandeep Singh preferred over Subha Ghosh.

The Highlanders got a great opportunity soon after the start.

Luis Machado sent in a delivery into the box, which was headed out straight back to him.

His cross from the right found Dylan Fox but he shot wide.