Guwahati, October 12: NorthEast United FC began their Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant, courtesy of Jithin M.S.’s stoppage-time winner at home on Monday.

Introduced at half-time, Jithin proved to be the decisive figure, striking in the 90+2nd minute to settle a closely fought contest in which both sides struggled to convert their chances. The result rewarded NorthEast United’s persistence and left Mohun Bagan frustrated after they had threatened to take control at several stages.

The match began at a brisk pace, with the Highlanders creating an opportunity in the opening minute. However, Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith was alert to the danger. The visitors responded with a set-piece chance in the ninth minute, but Lee Erwin’s effort struck the woodwork, keeping the contest goalless.

NorthEast United introduced Jithin for Asheer Akhtar at the start of the second half, while Mohun Bagan brought on Manvir Singh for Chhangte. The visitors continued to push forward, but goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh produced important saves to keep the hosts in contention.

Mohun Bagan attempted to inject fresh attacking impetus in the 59th minute, introducing Liston Colaco and Miguel Figueira for Sahal Samad and Erwin. NorthEast responded with a double substitution of their own, bringing on Parthib Gogoi and Nikola to add attacking energy.

The hosts gradually found greater momentum as the match progressed. Jithin came close to connecting with a dangerous cross in the 71st minute, but Mehtab Singh intervened. Alaeddine Ajaraie later found the net with a long-range effort, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.

The contest remained finely balanced in the closing stages. Nikola fired wide in the 83rd minute before Mohun Bagan came agonisingly close to scoring four minutes later, when substitute Suhail Bhat’s effort struck the woodwork following a cross from Colaco.

NorthEast United made the decisive breakthrough in stoppage time. After Kaith saved the initial effort, the rebound came off the post and fell to Jithin, who reacted quickest to score and spark celebrations among the home supporters.

The late goal underlined NorthEast United’s ability to keep pressing despite limited clear-cut opportunities. For Mohun Bagan, the defeat highlighted the cost of missed chances, with their failure to capitalise on promising attacking moments ultimately proving decisive.