Alaaeddin: The magic lamp of NorthEast United FC, Indian Super League’s star performer

When Alaaeddin arrived in India, he was relatively unknown, but quickly proved his worth. He broke Elano’s record of scoring in six consecutive matches and became the fastest player to score over 10 goals in ISL history. Additionally, he set the record for the first player to score three consecutive braces and shares the longest goal-scoring streak in the league. Currently leading the top-scorers chart, Alaaeddin has cemented his place as one of the most formidable forwards in the competition.

Hyderabad: Alaaeddin Ajaraie has taken the Indian Super League (ISL) by storm with his electrifying performances for NorthEast United FC. The Moroccan forward has been a revelation this season, scoring 11 goals and providing 4 assists in just 11 matches.

When he arrived in India, few knew about him, but he quickly silenced any doubts. Breaking Elano’s record of scoring in six consecutive matches, Alaaeddin has set multiple benchmarks, including becoming the fastest player to score more than 10 goals in ISL history. He’s also the first to net three consecutive braces, holding the joint record for the longest goal-scoring streak in the league. Currently at the top of the top-scorers’ chart, he is undoubtedly one of the most feared forwards in the competition.

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The 31-year-old’s stellar form in the initial games propelled NorthEast United to a strong start. Scoring 11 goals in the first eight matches. Reflecting on his success, Alaaeddin humbly credited his teammates for his achievements. “I’m happy to have scored 11 goals so far, but I must thank my teammates because without them, this wouldn’t have been possible,” he said.

However, the Moroccan’s scoring streak has recently cooled off. In their last three games, NorthEast United has managed only one win (against Punjab FC) and suffered two losses (against East Bengal and Mohun Bagan SG). Alaaeddin did not score in these fixtures. Despite this dip in form, both the player and the team see Monday’s clash against a struggling Hyderabad FC at GMC Balayogi Stadium as an opportunity to regain their momentum.

Hyderabad FC, languishing at the bottom of the standings and plagued by defensive frailties, could provide the perfect platform for Alaaeddin and his teammates to bounce back. Yet, the Moroccan remains cautious. “We always prepare for every game with 100 per cent focus. The match against Hyderabad FC will be no different. We respect our opponents. As our coach Juan Pedro Benali says, we must stay humble because, in football, any team can beat anyone,” he remarked.

NorthEast United’s transformation under Benali has been remarkable. Last season, the team narrowly missed the ISL playoffs by a single point but made significant progress, including a semifinal finish in the Durand Cup. This season, they started with a bang by lifting the Durand Cup—the club’s first-ever silverware. Many now consider them serious playoff contenders, and Alaaeddin shares that optimism. “Winning the Durand Cup was a great start. In the ISL, the season is long, and we focus on one game at a time. Our main objective is to qualify for the playoffs,” he stated.

Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Alaaeddin has won hearts with his unique celebration, inspired by the anime character Luffy from One Piece. His iconic ‘fist’ pose has gone viral on social media and fans love it. “I like Luffy’s character, and that inspired my celebration. I started it this season because I want people to remember me that way. Seeing our young Highlanders celebrate like me makes me happy,” he concluded.