Kolkata: In a thrilling Indian Super League (ISL) encounter at Salt Lake Stadium, Mohun Bagan Super Giant triumphed 3-2 over NorthEast United FC, overcoming two deficits to avenge their previous defeat in the Durand Cup. This pulsating match saw both teams exchange early blows, setting the stage for an unforgettable clash.
The game kicked off with immediate excitement as NorthEast United took the lead in just the fifth minute. Moroccan midfielder Mohammed Ali Bemammer unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, capitalizing on a smart cutback from Alaeddine Ajaraie, sending Mohun Bagan’s goalkeeper Vishal Kaith diving in vain.
However, the home side responded swiftly, with Dippendu Biswas netting his first ISL goal just five minutes later. A perfectly placed free-kick by Petratos found Dippendu, who executed a looping header to equalize, catching NEUFC’s goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh off guard.
As the first half unfolded, NorthEast United regained the lead in the 24th minute with a stunning counter-attack. Ajaraie and Jithin worked in harmony down the right flank, culminating in a powerful shot from Ajaraie that flew past Kaith, restoring the Highlanders’ advantage at 2-1.
Despite mounting pressure from Mohun Bagan, who struggled to penetrate a solid NorthEast defense, the Mariners came close to equalizing just before halftime. In a crucial moment, Greg Stewart’s low drive was cleared off the line by NEUFC captain Miguel Zabaco, preserving their lead going into the break.
The second half saw a tactical shift for Mohun Bagan as manager Jose Molina introduced Sahal Abdul Samad and Jason Cummings, seeking to inject creativity and energy into the attack. Their impact was felt quickly, and controversy erupted in the 61st minute when Subhasish Bose capitalized on a mistake by Gurmeet, who failed to secure a looping header. Bose slotted the ball home from close range, prompting furious protests from NorthEast United players claiming a foul on the goalkeeper. Despite their objections, the goal stood, leveling the score at 2-2.
As the match entered its final stages, Mohun Bagan continued to apply pressure. Cummings had a near miss when Sahal’s cross eluded him. However, in the 87th minute, the decisive moment arrived: Sahal delivered a pinpoint low cross, and Cummings, unmarked in the box, unleashed a powerful first-time shot to seal a dramatic comeback victory for the Mariners.
With this win, Mohun Bagan now sits with four points from two matches, while NorthEast United has three. The victory provides a much-needed boost for Mohun Bagan, who had faced scrutiny following a series of disappointing results, including a penalty shootout loss in the Durand Cup final and frustrating draws in previous ISL fixtures.
This hard-fought win not only revives the Mariners’ spirits but also relieves manager Jose Molina, who had recently faced criticism from fans during earlier matches.
