Jithin MS scored in stoppage time as NorthEast United defeated Mohun Bagan 1-0 in their ISL opener.
NorthEast United FC secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their Indian Super League (ISL) clash, with Jithin MS scoring the decisive goal in the 90+1st minute. Despite creating several scoring opportunities, the Mariners failed to convert their chances and were left disappointed as the Highlanders snatched all three points in the closing moments.
Mohun Bagan Waste Chances Despite Sustained Pressure
Mohun Bagan started the second half with an attacking change, bringing on Manvir Singh for Lallianzuala Chhangte. The Mariners looked determined to break the deadlock, but NorthEast United goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh continued to frustrate their efforts.
Lee Erwin had two opportunities to put Mohun Bagan ahead in the 54th minute. Gurmeet denied his first attempt, while the forward sent his second effort over the crossbar moments later.
Miguel entered the field in the 60th minute and almost made an immediate impact. Liston Colaco picked him out with a pass from the left, but Gurmeet reacted well to keep out his powerful shot.
Liston also tried his luck from a free-kick, but his initial effort was blocked by the defensive wall before Gurmeet saved his subsequent attempt. The NorthEast United goalkeeper remained a key figure as the visitors dealt with Mohun Bagan’s attacking pressure.
At the other end, Alaaeddine Ajaraie continued to pose a threat on the counterattack. He found the net in the 74th minute, but the goal was ruled out for offside. NorthEast United later came close to creating another opening through a low cross from Ajaraie, but Mehtab Singh intervened to clear the danger.
Jithin MS Delivers a Stoppage-Time Winner
As the match entered its final stages, Mohun Bagan pushed forward in search of a winning goal. Their best opportunity came in the 88th minute when Liston Colaco set up Suhail Ahmed Bhat. The forward managed to beat Gurmeet, but his shot struck the post, denying the Mariners a crucial breakthrough.
The missed opportunity proved costly. With the match seemingly heading towards a goalless draw, NorthEast United found the decisive goal in the first minute of stoppage time.
Moana unleashed a powerful effort from outside the box, which Vishal Kaith managed to save. However, the rebound struck the post and fell to Jithin MS, who reacted quickly to finish and send the visiting side into celebration.
The late strike settled a tightly contested encounter in NorthEast United’s favour. Mohun Bagan had created enough opportunities to take something from the match, but their inability to convert them proved decisive as the Highlanders secured a memorable 1-0 win.
Mohun Bagan will next face SC Delhi on October 16, while NorthEast United FC will take on Kerala Blasters FC on October 18.
ISL 2026-27 – NorthEast United FC vs Mohun Bagan SG highlights
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