NorthEast United FC Secures Dramatic Victory Over Mohun Bagan in ISL Opener

In a gripping match at Guwahati, NorthEast United FC secured a 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their ISL 2026/27 opener. Jithin M.S. scored the decisive goal in stoppage time, ensuring a thrilling start to the season for the Highlanders. Both teams showcased strong performances, but it was NorthEast's late strike that sealed the win. Read on for a detailed recap of this exciting encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 13, 2026, 09:02 IST

NorthEast United FC Triumphs in ISL 2026/27 Opener

Guwahati (Assam) [India], October 13: In an exciting start to the Indian Super League (ISL) 2026/27 season, NorthEast United FC faced off against Mohun Bagan Super Giant at their home ground in Guwahati. The match concluded with a thrilling 1-0 victory for NorthEast United, thanks to a last-minute goal from Jithin M.S., who found the net in the second minute of stoppage time (90+2').

Jithin, who was substituted in at the beginning of the second half, made an immediate impact by scoring the decisive goal, ensuring his team secured all three points in a tightly contested match.

Both teams started aggressively, with NorthEast United creating an opportunity right from the first minute. However, Mohun Bagan's goalkeeper, Vishal Kaith, was quick to respond. The visitors had a chance to score in the ninth minute with a set-piece, but Lee Erwin's shot hit the crossbar, keeping the score level.

NorthEast United made a tactical change by bringing Jithin on for Asheer Akhtar at halftime, while Mohun Bagan replaced Chhangte with Manvir Singh. Despite Bagan's attempts to push forward, NorthEast's Gurmeet Singh made several key saves to maintain the scoreline.

In the 59th minute, Bagan made further attacking substitutions, introducing Liston Colaco and Miguel Figueira for Sahal Samad and Lee Erwin. NorthEast responded with a double substitution, bringing in Parthib Gogoi and Nikola to enhance their offensive strategy.

As the match progressed, NorthEast United gained momentum in their attacks. In the 71st minute, they threatened with a cross aimed at Jithin, but defender Mehtab Singh intervened effectively. A long-range attempt by Alaeddine Ajaraie was disallowed for offside shortly after.

NorthEast continued to seek a winning goal, with Nikola missing a chance in the 83rd minute. Mohun Bagan nearly took the lead in the 87th minute when substitute Suhail Bhat's shot from a Liston Colaco cross hit the woodwork.

With five minutes of added time, NorthEast launched one last offensive. After Vishal Kaith saved an initial shot, the rebound fell to Jithin M.S., who capitalized on the opportunity to score, igniting celebrations among the home fans.

This late goal secured a memorable 1-0 victory for NorthEast United FC, marking a successful start to their home campaign with a vital three points.