Mohun Bagan redeemed their Durand Cup final defeat by securing a hard-fought 3-2 victory against NorthEast United in Monday’s ISL clash at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Despite trailing twice during the game, the Mariners mounted a spirited comeback, scoring twice in the second half to claim their first win of the ISL season.
The match got off to a rocky start for Mohun Bagan, as NorthEast United seized the lead within the first ten minutes. Moroccan forward Mohammed Ali Bemamer fired a powerful shot past Bagan’s goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, leaving the home side stunned. However, the Mariners responded swiftly, with youngster Dipendu Biswas heading in a well-timed free kick from Dimitri Petratos, leveling the score within minutes.
NorthEast United continued their relentless attacks, and their efforts paid off in the 24th minute. A fast-paced counterattack saw Jithin MS and Aladdin combining beautifully to send the latter through, who slotted the ball past a helpless Kaith, restoring NorthEast’s lead. Mohun Bagan’s defense appeared disorganized, raising questions about the lack of decisive tackles at crucial moments.
Refusing to back down, Mohun Bagan pushed forward aggressively, with chances falling to Manvir Singh and Jason Cummings, but NorthEast’s goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh stood tall, denying both attempts. The first half ended with NorthEast leading 2-1, but the Mariners remained determined to fight back.
Rain greeted the players as the second half began, but it did little to dampen the intensity of the game. Mohun Bagan found their breakthrough in controversial fashion. A corner led to a scrappy situation in the box, with NorthEast’s goalkeeper Gurmeet fumbling the ball due to slippery conditions. Defender Subhasish Bose took advantage, pouncing on the loose ball and netting the equalizer. Despite protests from NorthEast players, claiming Gurmeet had control of the ball, the referee upheld the goal.
With momentum now on their side, Mohun Bagan pressed on, and in the 78th minute, Jamie Maclaren came on for Petratos, marking his debut. Just minutes later, Mohun Bagan scored the winning goal. Sahal Abdul Samad delivered a low cross from the left, which found an unmarked Jason Cummings, who coolly slotted the ball home to secure the Mariners’ 3-2 victory.
The victory not only brought redemption for Mohun Bagan after their Durand Cup loss but also lifted the spirits of fans as the team earned their first ISL win of the season. Despite the triumph, questions remain about the team’s defensive vulnerabilities, which they must address as the season progresses.