Kolkata, September 26: NorthEast United FC made a strong start to their IFA Shield campaign, beating Sreenidi Deccan 3–0 at Vidyasagar Krirangan, Barasat, on Saturday afternoon to book their place in the semi-finals.

The Highlanders needed only seven minutes to take the lead. Jithin MS and Alaaeddine combined with a one-two on the left, with Jithin making his way into the box before Alaaeddine set the ball back for him. Jithin made no mistake with the finish, placing it into the net to make it 1–0.

However, NorthEast United FC were then dealt a blow when they needed to replace Mohammed Asraf due too injury. Dani Mitei came on in his place and needed only two minutes to make an impact.

In the 32nd minute, Jithin combined with Dani Mitei before entering the box from the left and cutting the ball back into the path of the substitute. Dani Mitei finished the move to double NorthEast United’s lead.

NorthEast United were forced into another change just before half-time, with Jithin making way for Parthib Gogoi in the third minute of added time, though their rhythm didn’t break out.

Sreenidi tried to find a way back after the break and came close immediately. In the 46th minute, Antonio got his shot away from the left side of the box, but Eneko was in the right place on the goal line to make the save and deny Sreenidi.

NorthEast United continued to look for more attack and added a third in the 60th minute. Ethyan found Parthib in the middle, who moved the ball forward into the box. Alaaeddine was there to finish the move and make it 3–0.

Sreenidi had another opportunity five minutes later when Adriano attempted an almost Olympic-style effort, but Gurmeet Singh produced the save to keep NorthEast United’s clean sheet intact.

With the match moved to the final whistle, few more chances were created by both the teams but there was no way back for Sreenidi after that as NorthEast United comfortably saw out the remaining minutes to complete a 3–0 victory.

The result sends NorthEast United FC into the IFA Shield semi-finals, while Sreenidi Deccan’s campaign comes to an end after two heavy defeats.

The 3–0 win also brought some concern for Pedro Benali, with Mohammed Asraf and Jithin MS both forced off during the game. With Mohun Bagan SG next on September 28, the Highlanders will have little time to recover before another important test, with a place in the semi-finals already secured.

From rainy conditions to bright sunshine, the IFA Shield has already seen contrasting weather across its games, with teams also having to adapt to different playing surfaces.

NorthEast United FC now joining Mohun Bagan SG in the semi-finals, the final Group B clash on September 28 will decide who finishes on top. The two sides will meet at Mohun Bagan ground in one last group-stage battle before turning their attention to the semi-finals.