Our Sports Reporter
GUWAHATI: NorthEast United FC made a winning start defeating Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their first match of Indian Super League 2026/27 at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium here on Monday. Jithin MS scored a brilliant winner in the second minute of additional time (90+2’) to give NorthEast United FC 1-0 win.
Both sides started on the front foot, with NorthEast United creating a chance in the opening minute. However, Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith was alert. The visitors responded with a promising set-piece opportunity in the seventh minute, but Lee Erwin’s effort struck the woodwork, keeping the scores level.
NorthEast United introduced Jithin for Asheer Akhtar at the start of the second half, while Mohun Bagan brought on Manvir Singh for Chhangte. Bagan continued to press forward, but Gurmeet Singh made crucial saves to keep NorthEast United in the game.
As the game progressed, NorthEast found greater attacking momentum. The hosts threatened through a cross towards Jithin MS in the 71st minute, but Bagan defender Mehtab Singh intervened to deny the forward a clear opportunity. Alaeddine Ajaraie subsequently found the net with a long-range effort, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
NorthEast continued to push for a winner, with Nikola firing off target in the 83rd minute. Bagan came close to breaking the deadlock in the 87th minute when substitute Suhail Bhat connected with a cross from Liston Colaco, only for his effort to strike the woodwork.
With five minutes of time added, NorthEast mounted one final attack. Vishal Kaith saved the initial effort, but the rebound off the post fell kindly for Jithin M.S, who made no mistake in finding the net. The forward reacted quickest to slot home, sending the home crowd into celebration.
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