New Delhi: The Disciplinary Committee of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has rescinded the red card issued to Muthu Irulandi Mayakkannan of NorthEast United FC during their Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 clash against Odisha FC, making the defender available for selection in their upcoming fixture against SC Delhi on April 10.
The decision comes following a review of the incident that saw Mayakkannan sent off in the first half of NorthEast United’s 1-4 defeat at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on March 20.
“The Red Card issued to NorthEast United FC midfielder Muthu Irulandi Mayakkannan (#13) during the match against Odisha FC has been officially rescinded by the AIFF Disciplinary Committee. As a result, the player is now eligible for selection in the Highlanders’ upcoming fixture against SC Delhi on April 10, 2026,” ISL wrote in a statement released on X.
Speaking of the match, Odisha FC registered a commanding win, powered by a brace from Rahul KP. The visitors took an early lead in the sixth minute when Rahul capitalised on a defensive lapse, finishing calmly after pressure from Rahim Ali forced an error from goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh.
NorthEast responded swiftly, with Parthib Gogoi setting up Macarton Nickson for a composed equaliser in the 10th minute. However, Odisha regained control midway through the first half when debutant Subham Bhattacharya scored from a set-piece situation to make it 2-1.
The turning point came in the 36th minute when Mayakkannan was shown a red card for a challenge on Rahul KP, reducing the Highlanders to 10 men. Odisha capitalised on the numerical advantage after the break, with Rahul adding his second goal in the 65th minute following a swift counterattack.
The Juggernauts extended their lead further just minutes later when an attacking move involving Isak Vanlalruatfela resulted in an own goal by Bekey Oram, sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory.
Despite late attempts from NorthEast United, including efforts from Thoi Singh and Asheer Akhtar, the hosts were unable to reduce the deficit.
With the red card now officially overturned, NorthEast United will be boosted by Mayakkannan’s availability as they prepare for their next ISL outing. The club is currently placed at the 8th position in the points table with just six points in six matches played so far in the ISL 2025-26.
(IANS)
