IMAGE: Kolkata giants Mohammedan Sporting are making their debut in the ISL this season. Photograph: Indian Super League / X

In a dramatic and emotional debut in the Indian Super League, Kolkata giants Mohammedan Sporting faced a heart-wrenching defeat at the hands of NorthEast United FC on Monday. The recently crowned Durand Cup champions edged out Mohammedan with a last-gasp goal in stoppage time, casting a shadow over what was a highly anticipated entrance for the Kolkata side.

The pivotal moment arrived in the dying embers of the match when NorthEast United’s Moroccan midfielder Alaeddine Ajaraie, who had come on as a substitute for Nestor Albiach in the 57th minute, showcased his brilliance. In the fourth minute of injury time (90+4), Ajaraie coolly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Padam Chettri, delivering a cruel blow to Mohammedan Sporting’s aspirations of securing at least a point from their debut match.

Throughout the match, Mohammedan Sporting, under the guidance of Russian coach Andrey Chernyshov, displayed moments of resilience and potential. Promoted to the ISL after clinching the I-League title last season, the team showed promise but was unable to capitalize on several key opportunities. Despite this setback, Chernyshov expressed pride in his team’s performance and optimism for future improvement. “They’re a much more experienced side, and winning the Durand Cup gave them valuable match time ahead of the season,” Chernyshov noted. “We deserved at least a point from this game, but I’m proud of the boys’ performance. They showed great promise, and I’m confident we’ll keep improving with each match.”

The match was also significant as it marked the first ISL game at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan stadium on the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass. Approximately 4,000 passionate Mohammedan Sporting fans filled the stands, waving their Black and White flags in support of their team’s historic debut.

IMAGE: North East United are in good form currently following their Durand Cup triumph last month. Photograph: Indian Super League / X

The first half was a cautious affair, with both teams testing each other’s defenses without taking significant risks. NorthEast United’s Jithin MS and Mohammedan’s Alexis Gómez attempted shots from outside the box, but neither goalkeeper faced serious threats.

Mohammedan Sporting faced additional challenges with key players Abdul Kadiri Mohammed and Mohammed Jassim sidelined due to injuries. While defensively organized, the team struggled to find a cutting edge in their attacking play. Winger Lalremsanga Fanai provided some sparks of creativity early on, winning several fouls on the right flank and keeping NorthEast United’s defense alert. However, clear-cut chances remained elusive, with most attempts coming from distance.

The second half saw an increase in physicality, with both teams receiving multiple yellow cards as tempers flared. Players like Amarjit Singh and Mirjalol Kasimov for Mohammedan, along with Míchel Zabaco and Dinesh Singh for NorthEast United, found themselves booked in quick succession. The match turned into a gritty battle of attrition, further complicated by injuries that forced both sides to make substitutions and disrupt their rhythm.

The decisive moment came after sustained pressure from NorthEast United. A swift attacking move saw Thoi Singh deliver a low cross into the box from the right flank. Mohammedan’s defense failed to clear the danger, allowing Ajaraie to control the ball with his first touch before calmly slotting a left-footed shot past Padam Chettri from close range. Chettri, who had made an impressive save earlier in the 58th minute, was left dejected as the goal silenced the home supporters who had hoped their team would secure at least a point.

Despite the disappointment, this debut match offered valuable lessons and highlighted areas for improvement for Mohammedan Sporting as they embark on their ISL journey. With continued effort and refinement, they aim to build on this experience and strive for better results in future matches.