Mohammedan SC resumed their ISL campaign in the new year with a solid football display, securing one point from their fixture against NorthEast United FC. On January 3, at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, the Black and White Army held the Highlanders to a goalless draw with their resolute defensive performance.
Northeast dominated offensively throughout the match. However, Mohammedan SC had their first real opportunity in the 18th minute when Adison Singh created a effective move. Despite being close to Alexis Gomez, he chipped the ball, which Gomez controlled with a delicate touch before firing a left-footed shot. Unfortunately, the attempt missed the target, going wide to the left.Despite several great goal-bound moves from both teams, the first half remained goalless.
In the 57th minute, the Highlanders earned a free kick from distance. Alaaeddine took the free kick and sent the ball to Parthiv in the left corner of the box, but Mohammedan SC’s alert defense intercepted the attempt. In the 62nd minute, Mohammedan earned their first corner kick of the match following a long shot by Alexis Gomez from a free kick that was deflected out. Alexis took the corner kick directly on target, but Gurmeet managed to save the shot.
In the 70th minute, substitute Guillermo attempted to create trouble for Mohammedan with a sharp attempt from a tight angle inside the box. Samte played an accurate corner to Guillermo at the near post on the right. However, despite his quick reaction and good positioning, Guillermo couldn’t beat Padam Chhetri.
Despite dominating with 60% ball possession and attempting 25 shots, the hosts failed to break Mohammedan SC’s defense. The squad has been struggling since the start of the season, managing only one win in 14 matches. Mohammedan, who had secured one point from their previous fixtures, may find a boost in confidence from tonight’s result and performance in their challenging maiden season. Injury concerns have eased for Chernyshov, with Gourav Bora returning to the field tonight, and Franca match-fit and actively participate the game.
Northeast United FC will host their next fixtures against Punjab FC on January 10. Mohammedan SC have their next away fixtures on January 11, against Bengaluru FC.
Player of the match: Mohammedan SC defender Florent Ogier.
