NorthEast United FC started their Indian Super League 2026-27 campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Guwahati on Monday. Jithin M S scored in the second minute of stoppage time to secure all three points for the Highlanders. Jithin entered the match at half-time and delivered the decisive goal in the 90+2nd minute. His late strike settled a closely fought contest and gave the home side a winning start to the season against the defending champions from Kolkata.

Both Teams Start on the Front Foot

NorthEast United attacked from the opening whistle and created a scoring opportunity in the first minute. However, Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith made an important save to deny the hosts an early lead. Mohun Bagan responded with an opportunity of their own in the ninth minute. Lee Erwin took a shot from a set-piece situation, but the ball struck the woodwork and stayed out. Both sides continued to search for an opening goal, but neither team could convert its chances in the first half.

Half-Time Changes Bring Fresh Energy

NorthEast United introduced Jithin at the start of the second half, replacing Asheer Akhtar. Mohun Bagan also made a change, bringing on Manvir Singh for Chhangte. The visitors increased the pressure after the break and looked to take control of the match. However, NorthEast United goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh produced crucial saves to keep his team in contention. Mohun Bagan made two more substitutions in the 59th minute. Liston Colaco and Miguel Figueira came on for Sahal Samad and Erwin, respectively, as the visitors attempted to strengthen their attack. NorthEast United responded with changes of their own. Parthib Gogoi and Nikola replaced Macarton Nickson and Ethyan Gonzalez as the hosts looked for more attacking options.

NorthEast United Push for the Winning Goal

The Highlanders gradually increased their attacking threat as the second half progressed. In the 71st minute, a cross found Jithin in a promising position. However, Mohun Bagan defender Mehtab Singh intervened and prevented the forward from getting a clear opportunity to score. NorthEast United appeared to have taken the lead when Alaeddine Ajaraie scored with a long-range effort. However, the referee ruled out the goal for offside. The hosts continued to press for a winner. Nikola came close in the 83rd minute but sent his effort wide of the target. Mohun Bagan also threatened late in the match. In the 87th minute, substitute Suhail Bhat met a cross from Colaco, but his attempt struck the woodwork and denied the visitors a crucial goal.

Jithin M S Strikes in Stoppage Time

With the match approaching a draw, NorthEast United launched one final attack in stoppage time. Kaith initially saved the hosts’ effort, but the ball rebounded off the post. Jithin reacted quickly, reached the loose ball and slotted it into the net in the 90+2nd minute. The late goal sent the home supporters into celebration and gave NorthEast United a dramatic victory. Jithin’s decisive finish proved the difference between the two sides. The Highlanders secured three valuable points in their opening fixture and began their ISL campaign by defeating the defending champions in a closely contested encounter.