Kolkata : NorthEast United FC tied 1-1 against defending champion and in form Mohun Bagan SG at Mohun Bagan AC Ground with help of late equalizer from super sub Ethyan Gonzalez Jesus.
After a tightly fought first half, where Mohun Bagan came near many times but couldn’t succeed as it ended 0-0.
However, at start of 2nd half in 49th minute, Mohun Bagan opened their account. Lee Erwin scored in 2nd consecutive game with help of a long pass from experienced Jamie Maclaren.
Mohun Bagan had a golden opportunity to make 2-0 and seal the game when they’re awarded a penalty. However, NorthEast goalkeeper Dipesh Chauhan dived towards his left and brilliantly save the penalty taken by Miguel.
This didn’t end here, as some more shock was waiting for Bagan. Spanish Forward Ethyan surged with the Ball counterattacking with long pass and pierced through Bagan defense and Vishal Kaith to equalize for NorthEast.
Mohun Bagan did have chances at the end, even had empty nets but failed to convert and the match ended 1-1.
Although Bagan finished on top, this could shake their confidence ahead of semi final.
On top of that, Jamie Maclaren had groin injury during the match in 2nd half in 76th minute when he felt discomfort in hamstring and left the field. Head Coach Panos stated that there will be scan tomorrow and they’ll get update on extent on injury. Maclaren is a star campaigner of Bagan and it could severely affect them as the injury comes just ahead of ISL 2026-27.
Former Mohun Bagan legend Jose Ramirez Barreto was also present to witness the game, cheering for them.
After the game, Barreto said, “The whole team looked a bit disorganized today. It was a bit unlucky. We missed a goal at the end. We missed a penalty. That was the turning point of the match. At that time, Mohun Bagan had control of the ball. They had complete control of the game. At that time, missing a penalty meant giving hope to the opponent. But this is only the second match. Hopefully, they will improve further.”
The Brazilian was cheered and received by fans with immense love despite the result.
A nostalgic Barreto stated, “I am watching a game at Mohun Bagan after a long time. When I came to know that it was a match against NorthEast, I decided to come.”
Mohun Bagan will next play semi final on 4th September. The opponent is yet to be decided with another Group 2 game between East Bengal and Punjab FC remaining.
Brief Scorecard :
Mohun Bagan SG – 1 (Erwin 49′)
NorthEast United FC – 1 (Ethyan 71′).
