Mohun Bagan Secures Narrow Win Against Chennaiyin FC
In a thrilling match at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) in Kolkata, Mohun Bagan Super Giant emerged victorious with a 1-0 scoreline against Chennaiyin FC. The only goal of the match was netted by Manvir Singh in the dying moments of the second half.
Both teams had numerous chances throughout the game, but goalkeepers Mohammad Nawaz and Vishal Kaith made crucial saves that kept the scoreline level for most of the match. Chennaiyin nearly took the lead when Nikola Stojanović’s shot hit the crossbar, but it was Mohun Bagan who ultimately found the net, as reported by the league’s press release.
Match Dynamics and Tactical Adjustments
Chennaiyin FC began the match with strong intent, as Stojanović attempted a long-range shot that went over the bar. Brison Fernandes and Irfan Yadwad also came close to scoring, with Fernandes narrowly missing from inside the box and Yadwad’s header from a Stojanović cross going off target. Mohun Bagan responded with a chance from Samir Zeljković, whose shot was saved by Nawaz, while Alberto Rodríguez failed to convert a corner opportunity. At the other end, Kaith made vital saves against Yadwad and Madih Talal, and Nawaz thwarted efforts from Lee Erwin and Dejan Dražić, leading to a goalless first half.
Key Moments Leading to the Winning Goal
After halftime, Bagan made tactical changes, bringing in Sahal Abdul Samad for Lallianzuala Chhangte and Anirudh Thapa for Zeljković. Chennaiyin continued to threaten, with Kaith saving attempts from Yadwad and Ramon, while Namgyal Bhutia and Fernandes missed their chances. The visitors made their first substitution, introducing Bryce Miranda for Fernandes, while Bagan countered with Subhasish Bose for Rahul Bheke. Chennaiyin also made changes, bringing on Lalhriatpuia Chawngthu and S Prakadeswaran for Ayush Chhetri and Yadwad, respectively.
As the match progressed, both teams remained in contention. Nawaz made crucial saves against Erwin and Manvir, while Stojanović came close again, hitting the crossbar with a left-footed shot set up by Prakadeswaran. Kaith continued to shine with another important save against the Chennaiyin midfielder. In the final minutes, Bagan introduced Liston Colaco and Abhishek Suryavanshi for Deepak Tangri and Dražić, and the substitutions proved effective. Colaco’s cross found Manvir, who scored with his chest in the 85th minute, sealing the victory for The Mariners.
The late goal was pivotal in a match filled with opportunities for both sides, highlighted by Kaith’s impressive saves and Chennaiyin’s near miss. Mohun Bagan held on to claim all three points at home.