Jithin MS Late Heroics Sink Mohun Bagan in ISL Thriller
Jithin MS scored a dramatic 92nd-minute winner to gift NorthEast United FC a 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their ISL season opener.
In a dramatic start to the Indian Super League (ISL) 2026/27 season, NorthEast United FC secured a breathtaking 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant, thanks to a last-gasp strike from Jithin M.S.
The match, held in Guwahati, Assam, remained a tense, deadlock-breaking encounter until the very final moments of stoppage time. The Highlanders managed to snatch all three points in front of a jubilant home crowd, turning what looked to be a stalemate into a monumental opening-day triumph.
A Seesaw Battle in Guwahati
Both teams entered the pitch with high intensity, looking to set the tone for their respective campaigns. NorthEast United nearly took an early lead in the opening minute, but Mohun Bagan’s goalkeeper, Vishal Kaith, was quick to deny them. The visitors responded almost immediately, with Lee Erwin striking the woodwork in the ninth minute to keep the scoreline level.
As the first half progressed, neither side could find the clinical edge required to break the deadlock. Mohun Bagan pushed for dominance, but NorthEast United goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh produced a series of vital saves to keep his side in contention.
Tactical Shifts and Near Misses
The second half saw a flurry of tactical changes as both managers sought to unlock the opposition. NorthEast United introduced Jithin M.S. for Asheer Akhtar at the start of the half, a move that would ultimately define the match. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan brought on Manvir Singh to replace Chhangte, attempting to increase their attacking pressure.
The tension mounted as the game neared its conclusion:
- 71st Minute: NorthEast threatened through a cross to Jithin M.S., but Mehtab Singh intercepted the danger.
- Offside Goal: Alaeddine Ajaraie thought he had scored for Bagan with a long-range effort, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
- 87th Minute: Mohun Bagan came agonizingly close when Suhail Bhat's connection from a Liston Colaco cross hit the woodwork.
The Moment of Magic
With five minutes of added time on the clock, the stadium held its breath. NorthEast United launched one final, desperate assault. A shot was initially parried by Vishal Kaith, but the ball ricocheted off the post and fell perfectly into the path of the substitute, Jithin M.S.
Showing incredible composure, Jithin reacted faster than the defenders to slot the ball into the net in the 90+2nd minute. The late winner sent the Guwahati faithful into a frenzy and left the Mohun Bagan squad stunned.
The final whistle confirmed a 1-0 victory for the Highlanders, marking a perfect start to their home campaign and providing a massive psychological boost for the season ahead.