NorthEast United FC pulled off a dramatic 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 clash on Monday, with substitute Jithin MS scoring a sensational stoppage-time winner to secure all three points for the Highlanders.
Despite dominating much of the contest and creating several promising opportunities, Mohun Bagan failed to find the breakthrough, allowing Juan Pedro Benali’s men to snatch victory in the closing moments.
The Mariners entered the match with a reshuffled starting lineup, with summer signing Lee Erwin leading the attack in the absence of injured striker Jamie Maclaren.
Erwin nearly made an immediate impact in the eighth minute when he connected with Lallianzuala Chhangte’s corner on the volley. However, his effort struck the upright, and the forward was subsequently flagged offside.
Mohun Bagan continued to enjoy the better attacking opportunities but struggled to turn their possession and pressure into goals. Erwin, in particular, failed to capitalise on several promising situations inside the opposition penalty area.
NorthEast United, meanwhile, remained disciplined and prevented the Mariners from establishing a decisive advantage.
After a relatively quiet middle period, the match came alive during the final 10 minutes as both teams searched for a late winner.
Mohun Bagan came agonisingly close when substitutes Liston Colaco and Suhail Ahmed Bhat combined to create a golden opportunity. Bhat managed to beat NorthEast goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh, but his effort crashed against the woodwork.
That missed chance proved costly as NorthEast United delivered the decisive blow deep into second-half stoppage time.
Antonio Moyano unleashed a powerful effort from outside the penalty area, forcing goalkeeper Vishal Kaith into a save. The ball rebounded off the woodwork and fell invitingly to Jithin, who reacted quickly to fire home the winning goal.
The late strike sparked celebrations for the Highlanders and left Mohun Bagan regretting their missed opportunities.
The result also offered NorthEast United a measure of revenge after Mohun Bagan had defeated them on penalties in the Durand Cup semifinals earlier this season.
For Benali’s side, the victory highlighted their determination to fight until the final whistle, while Mohun Bagan were left with questions about their attacking efficiency.
The Mariners will now look to bounce back when they travel to face Sporting Club Delhi on October 16.
NorthEast United, meanwhile, will aim to build on their dramatic triumph when they host Kerala Blasters on October 18.
