Mohun Bagan Super Giant had to fight back from adversity not just once but twice during their Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 clash with NorthEast United at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) on Monday. Mohun Bagan pulled off a thrilling comeback, thanks to an 89th-minute winner from super-sub Jason Cummings’ to earn full points and made it up for the home fans.
Early Dominance by NorthEast United
NorthEast United FC started the game brightly and looked determined to press from the off. Alaeddine Bouslimi, Guillermo Fernandez, and Jithin M.S. were on fire in the early minutes as they kept slicing up Mohun Bagan’s defense. The tactic quickly yielded dividends as playmaker Mohammed Bemmamer climbed into a scorcher from outside the box and slammed into the net in the fifth minute, sending ENPPI 1-0 up.
For the first 10 minutes, it seemed like NorthEast United were going to dominate the game entirely. Their high-intensity approach caught Mohun Bagan off guard, leaving the Mariners scrambling to find their footing.
Mohun Bagan’s Quick Response
But Mohun Bagan showed they were up for the challenge. Dippendu Biswas who goes by the alias of ‘Didika’ in his debut match had no such problems however as he rose above all others to head home a splendid Dimitri Petratos free-kick that left Kundan Chandra rooted to his spot making the scores 1-1.lp. An equaliser pumped life back in to the home side and the game was on from there.
NorthEast United Regain the Lead
Despite the equalizer, NorthEast United continued to threaten. Alaeddine Ajaraie showcased his individual brilliance in the 24th minute, scoring a stunning goal to restore NorthEast’s lead. His clinical finish made it 2-1, and the visitors looked poised to take control of the match once again.
Mohun Bagan found themselves on the back foot, struggling to maintain possession and create meaningful chances. The Salt Lake crowd, however, remained hopeful, cheering their team on in the hopes of another comeback.
Controversy Strikes: Mohun Bagan’s Equalizer
Their equalizer came in the 61st minute amid some controversy. Subhasish Bose cashed in on a loose ball inside the box and rolled it over the line. NorthEast complained to the ref that they had been fouled in the build up, but their protests fell on deaf ears as Chennai’s goal catcher stood! That made it 2-2, leaving the stage for a grandstand finish.
Jason Cummings: The Super-Sub Hero
With the match seemingly headed for a draw, Mohun Bagan head coach Juan Ferrando made a decisive tactical move by bringing on Jason Cummings as a substitute. The Australian forward, known for his late-game heroics, wasted no time making an impact.
In the 87th minute, Cummings received a pass inside the box and, with ice-cool composure, slotted the ball past the NorthEast United goalkeeper. The Salt Lake Stadium erupted in joy as Mohun Bagan took the lead for the first time in the match, making it 3-2.
Cummings’ goal proved to be the match-winner, securing a hard-fought victory for Mohun Bagan and leaving NorthEast United stunned. It was a perfect example of how football can turn on a single moment, and Cummings was the hero of the night.
Key Takeaways
- Resilience from Mohun Bagan: Despite going behind twice, Mohun Bagan showed incredible determination and fighting spirit to come back and win. Their ability to bounce back from adversity was a testament to the team’s mental toughness.
- Jason Cummings: Super-Sub: Cummings’ late goal not only secured the victory but also highlighted his importance to the squad. His knack for scoring crucial goals in high-pressure situations will be vital as the season progresses.
- NorthEast United’s Strong Start Fizzles Out: NorthEast United started the game brilliantly, but they couldn’t maintain their intensity throughout the match. Despite their impressive start, they were unable to close out the game and were punished for their defensive lapses.
- Controversial Equalizer: Subhasish Bose’s equalizing goal in the 61st minute was mired in controversy, but it ultimately stood. While NorthEast United might feel aggrieved, it was a crucial turning point in the match that shifted momentum in Mohun Bagan’s favor.
FAQs
Jason Cummings scored the winning goal in the 87th minute, securing a 3-2 victory for Mohun Bagan.
NorthEast United scored two goals, with Mohammed Bemmamer and Alaeddine Ajaraie finding the back of the net.
The match was played at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) in Kolkata.
The match ended 3-2 in favor of Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
Dimitri Petratos delivered the free-kick that led to Dippendu Biswas’s equalizing header.
Conclusion
Tasting his team’s first ever victory in a closely fought 3-2 battle, Mohun Bagan Super Giants showed an effective form of using drama to swing the action their way as they battled back from NorthEast United’s early dominance. Thanks to Jason Cummings’ late strike, Mohun Bagan climbed up the rankings and this situation will kick their season offheadingforward. With that loss, it is settled by NorthEast United FC and hence they would have to be work on theirs fitness levels at 90 minutes long as the ISL 2024-25 season minutes away.
