Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], September 15 (ANI): Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) has made headlines by announcing the signing of seasoned Portuguese defender Nuno Reis on Sunday.

The 33-year-old centre-back, known for his robust defensive skills, previously showcased his talent at Melbourne City FC in the A-League. During his tenure there, he was instrumental in the team securing three consecutive Premiership titles and clinching the championship in 2021. Reis brings a wealth of experience to the Mariners’ backline.

This latest acquisition marks MBSG’s seventh overseas signing of the season. However, according to league regulations, the club is permitted to register only six foreign players during the season, presenting a strategic conundrum for the coaching staff.

The defending ISL Shield winners, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, commenced their campaign with a thrilling 2-2 draw against Mumbai City FC (MCFC) on Friday. The match took place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata and served as the curtain-raiser for the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.

In an exhilarating encounter, Mumbai City FC staged a remarkable comeback to level the score at 2-2. Despite MBSG’s early dominance and a 2-0 lead in the first half, they were unable to secure a victory as MCFC mounted a spirited resurgence on a rain-soaked evening in Kolkata.

The Islanders kicked off the match with high energy and offensive momentum. They found the back of the net early through Bipin Singh in the fourth minute, but the goal was disallowed due to an offside call. Just five minutes later, Phurba Lachenpa sent in a dangerous cross from Liston Colaco that deflected off Tiri and resulted in an own goal, giving MBSG an unexpected lead.

Mumbai City FC’s new signing Nikolaos Karelis nearly equalized with a close-range header that narrowly missed the target. Despite this setback, the team, coached by Petr Kratky, maintained their aggressive forward play. MBSG capitalized on this in the 28th minute when Alberto Rodriguez scored after Greg Stewart directed a corner into a perilous area, doubling their advantage.

After securing their second goal, MBSG’s midfield gained more control of the game, prompting Kratky to substitute Jeremy Manzorro in place of debutant Jon Toral before halftime.

Entering the second half with renewed vigor, the Islanders relentlessly attacked. Bipin Singh and Lallianzuala Chhangte made penetrating runs that consistently troubled MBSG’s defense, though they struggled to convert these efforts into goals.

Their persistence bore fruit when Tiri scored for the Islanders following a precise cross from Karelis. The hosts were caught off guard as Tiri calmly finished at the far post, reducing the deficit and reigniting hopes for Mumbai City FC.

The introduction of Noufal PN added dynamism to MCFC’s left flank. The young talent displayed impressive skill after coming off the bench, creating numerous problems for MBSG’s defenders. His efforts culminated in finding substitute Thaer Krouma in the box, who hammered home an equalizer in the final moments of the match, ensuring a hard-fought point for the visitors.

Looking ahead, Mohun Bagan Super Giant is set to face Tajikistan’s Kavshan Kulob in their upcoming AFC Champions League match at Salt Lake Stadium on Wednesday. This encounter promises another exciting chapter in their season.