Guwahati, Aug. 9 -- NorthEast United FC continued their title defence in the Durand Cup with a convincing 4-1 victory over Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Sarusajai, Guwahati, on Saturday.

The defending champions produced another strong performance to register their second win in as many matches and strengthen their position in the race for a place in the knockout stage.

Alaaeddine Ajaraie was the star of the evening for the Highlanders, scoring twice, while substitutes Macarton Louis Nickson and debutant Etyan Gonzalez Morales added late goals to complete the win.

NorthEast United started aggressively under head coach Juan Pedro Benali, who opted for an attacking 4-2-4 formation. The Highlanders ...