Mohun Bagan Super Giant began their AFC Champions League Two journey with a disappointing home loss against Turkmenistan’s Ahal FK on Tuesday. The match took place at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.

The game was tightly contested until super-sub Enwer Annayev scored in the second half, securing all three points for the visitors. The goal handed Ahal FK a crucial win while the Mariners were left frustrated at the start of their continental campaign.

Early Chances for the Mariners

Mohun Bagan started brightly and created their first chance in the 13th minute. Jason Cummings delivered a well-placed corner that was partially cleared by the Ahal defense. The ball landed for Liston Colaco, but his grounded shot was blocked.

Just two minutes later, Kiyan Nassiri broke past two defenders and cut the ball back to Sahal Abdul Samad. However, Sahal’s first-time strike was denied by the visiting goalkeeper, keeping the score level.

Ahal FK Hit the Crossbar

Ahal FK got their first real opportunity in the 32nd minute. Berenov sent in a low cross from the right flank, which deflected off a defender and struck the crossbar. The Mariners escaped conceding, and the score remained 0-0.

Before the break, Sahal created another chance for Jason Cummings. The Australian forward found space but failed to keep his shot on target.

The first half ended goalless, with both teams showing flashes of brilliance but lacking a clinical finish.

Ahal FK Dominate Early Second Half

After halftime, Ahal FK shifted gears, controlling possession with quick passes and sharp build-ups.

In the 57th minute, Berenov made a dazzling run into the box and unleashed a low shot. However, Vishal Kaith produced a fine save to keep the Mariners in the game.

Coach Jose Molina responded with tactical changes. He brought on Jamie Maclaren and Anirudh Thapa, replacing Kiyan Nassiri and Deepak Tangri.

Maclaren Threatens but Ahal Keeper Stands Strong

Maclaren nearly made an instant impact, almost scoring with his first touch. However, Ahal goalkeeper Berdiyev reacted brilliantly to clear the danger. The goal would not have counted as Maclaren was ruled offside.

Mohun Bagan’s best chance came soon after. Thapa found Cummings inside the box, and Cummings squared the ball perfectly to Maclaren at the far post. Maclaren fired a first-time shot, but Berdiyev stood tall once again, pulling off another stunning save to deny the hosts.

Substitutions Turn the Game

In the 72nd minute, Mohun Bagan brought on Robson Robinho and Subhasish Bose, replacing Colaco and Tekcham Abhishek Singh. Seven minutes later, Ahal FK introduced Gurbanberdiyev and Enwer Annayev, who replaced Abdyrahmanov and Berenov.

The substitutions changed the game instantly. In the 83rd minute, Gurbanberdiyev sent a pinpoint pass from the left to Annayev inside the box. Annayev calmly slotted the ball past the defense, giving Ahal FK a 1-0 lead.

Mariners Fail to Find an Equaliser

Despite pressing hard in the closing stages, Mohun Bagan could not break down Ahal’s resilient defense. The final whistle confirmed a narrow defeat for the Kolkata side in their opening AFC Champions League Two group-stage match. The loss leaves Mohun Bagan with work to do as they aim to bounce back and keep their continental hopes alive in the upcoming fixtures.