SC Delhi continued their upward momentum in the Indian Super League 2025–26 season with a commanding 3-0 victory over NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium.
A clinical second-half performance, spearheaded by Joseph Sunny’s brace, ensured the visitors secured their second consecutive win and climbed to eighth in the standings.
The result marked a significant turnaround for SC Delhi, who had struggled early in the campaign but now appear to have found rhythm and clarity. With eight points from their matches so far, they have moved into mid-table contention, while NorthEast United slipped to tenth with six points after another frustrating outing.
The contest began with intensity, as NorthEast United looked to capitalise on home advantage. Within the opening minute, Jithin MS tested goalkeeper Nora Fernandes, setting the tone for an aggressive start by the hosts. Bekey Oram’s dangerous delivery from the flank soon followed, forcing Fernandes into another alert intervention.
NorthEast’s attacking approach was built around width and quick transitions, with Jithin particularly influential down the flanks. However, despite their early pressure, they struggled to convert promising positions into clear scoring opportunities.
SC Delhi gradually settled into the game, responding with efforts of their own. Mohammed Aimen and Devendra Murgaokar attempted long-range strikes, but neither side managed to find the breakthrough. The midfield battle remained tightly contested, with both teams maintaining compact defensive structures.
Photo: Surajit Sharma / Focus Sports / ISL
A crucial defensive moment late in the half saw Dinesh Singh produce a last-ditch challenge to deny Aimen a potential chance inside the box. The first half eventually ended goalless, reflecting a contest that had intensity but lacked cutting edge in the final third.
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The second half saw a noticeable increase in tempo, with both teams pushing forward more aggressively. NorthEast introduced Jairo Samperio at the break, and the Spaniard quickly made an impact, testing Fernandes with a powerful effort from distance.
At the other end, Aimen continued to be a key outlet for SC Delhi, driving forward with intent and probing the NorthEast defence. The visitors began to find more space between the lines, and their attacking movements became sharper and more coordinated.
The breakthrough came in the 65th minute through a well-executed attacking sequence. Aimen, who had been central to Delhi’s forward play, delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to Joseph Sunny. The winger showed composure beyond his years, placing a precise finish into the far corner to give SC Delhi a deserved lead.
Just four minutes later, Joseph Sunny doubled the advantage with a moment of individual brilliance. Abdul-Halik Hudu initiated the move with a lofted pass from deep, and Sunny timed his run expertly to beat the defensive line. Controlling the ball with confidence, he lifted his finish over goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh to make it 2-0.
The quickfire double shifted the momentum completely in favour of SC Delhi. NorthEast United, who had been competitive for large parts of the game, now found themselves chasing the contest against a side growing in confidence.
Sunny’s performance stood out not only for his goals but also for his movement and decision-making in the attacking third. His ability to exploit defensive gaps and convert chances efficiently proved decisive. SC Delhi continued to press for a third goal, and their attacking cohesion was evident in the build-up play. In the 73rd minute, Sunny turned provider, setting up Sourav K, whose powerful strike was denied by a sharp save from Gurmeet Singh.
However, the third goal eventually arrived in the 80th minute, capping off a dominant spell by the visitors. Ousmane Fané drove forward from midfield before combining with Sunny, who squared the ball to Aimen. The forward showcased excellent composure, weaving past defenders before unleashing a powerful strike into the top corner.
The goal effectively ended the contest, underlining SC Delhi’s superiority in the second half.
NorthEast struggle for response
Despite going behind, NorthEast United attempted to respond in the closing stages. Lalrinzuala Hauhnar came closest, forcing a save from Fernandes, but the hosts lacked the precision needed to break down Delhi’s organised defence. The Highlanders’ inability to convert possession into clear chances once again proved costly. While their build-up play showed promise, the lack of a clinical edge in the final third remained a concern.
For SC Delhi, the victory represents more than just three points. Under assistant coach Noel Joseph, who stepped in during the absence of suspended head coach Tomasz Tchórz, the team displayed tactical discipline and attacking efficiency. The performance highlighted their growing confidence, particularly in transition and finishing. With players like Joseph Sunny and Mohammed Aimen stepping up, SC Delhi now appear to have found a balanced attacking unit.
As the league progresses, maintaining this consistency will be key. Back-to-back wins have provided momentum, and the challenge now is to sustain performances against stronger opposition. For NorthEast United, the defeat raises questions about their ability to convert promising play into results. While their structure and intent remain evident, improvements in finishing and defensive concentration will be necessary to stay competitive.
On the night, however, the story belonged to SC Delhi and to Joseph Sunny whose decisive contribution powered his side to a comprehensive and confidence-boosting victory.
