Indian Super League (ISL): NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) suffer defeat against Mohun Bagan in home turf

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: NorthEast United FC faced another defeat in the Indian Super League (ISL), falling 2-0 to Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Indira Gandhi Athletics Stadium here on Friday. The encounter marked the third meeting between the two teams this season, with Mohun Bagan now holding a 2-1 edge in their head-to-head record.

The game had a lot of intensity right from the kickoff whistle with the visitors taking the initiative. The first real chance of the match came Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s way when Liston Colaco struck the post in the 10th minute after beating a couple of defenders on his way before pulling the trigger. Nine minutes later, it was NorthEast United FC’s turn to attack as Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s brilliant cross from the left flank found Nestor Albiach in the box. The Spaniard controlled the ball before unleashing a vicious effort on goal but Vishal Kaith came up with a fantastic save to deny the Highlanders an early lead.

Juan Pedro Benali turned to Parthib Gogoi in place of Jithin MS at the start of the second half. NorthEast United FC were on the ascendancy as Ajaraie had a sensational opportunity to put the hosts ahead in the game. The move started with Parthib, who won possession from Asish Rai and was on his run before releasing to Ajaraie but the Moroccan’s effort was way off target from close range.

The opening goal came in the 65th minute when Manvir Singh made a beautiful cut in from the right flank before nestling the ball into the top left corner before the Highlanders’ backline including Gurmeet could even react.

The goal saw a massive shift in momentum for the visitors as they held more possession and started creating some chances. In the 71st minute, their sustained pressure paid dividends when Liston lost his marker with a fine cut-in before curling it past Gurmeet on the far post to double the lead for the Mariners.

Also Read: Indian Super League (ISL): East Bengal beat NEUFC to clinch first win of season

Also Watch: