GUWAHATI: Jithin M S struck deep into stoppage time as NorthEast United FC pulled off a dramatic 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their Indian Super League season opener here on Monday.
Introduced at the start of the second half, Jithin scored in the 90+2nd minute to hand the Highlanders all three points in a closely contested encounter at home.
Both teams started aggressively, with NorthEast United creating an opportunity in the opening minute, only for Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith to thwart the hosts.
The visitors came close to taking the lead in the ninth minute when Lee Erwin's effort from a set-piece situation struck the woodwork.
NorthEast United brought on Jithin for Asheer Akhtar at half-time, while Mohun Bagan introduced Manvir Singh in place of Chhangte.
Mohun Bagan continued to press after the break, but NorthEast goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh made crucial saves to keep his side in the contest.
The visitors made a double change in the 59th minute, introducing Liston Colaco and Miguel Figueira for Sahal Samad and Erwin, respectively.
NorthEast United responded by bringing on Parthib Gogoi and Nikola for Macarton Nickson and Ethyan Gonzalez as they looked to inject fresh energy into their attack.
The hosts gradually gained momentum, with a cross finding Jithin in the 71st minute, but Mohun Bagan defender Mehtab Singh intervened to deny the forward a clear opportunity.
Alaeddine Ajaraie subsequently found the net with a long-range effort, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
NorthEast continued to push for a winner, with Nikola firing wide in the 83rd minute. Mohun Bagan nearly broke the deadlock four minutes later when substitute Suhail Bhat connected with a cross from Colaco, but his effort struck the woodwork.
With the match heading towards a draw, NorthEast United launched one final attack in stoppage time. Kaith saved the initial effort, but the ball rebounded off the post and Jithin reacted quickest to slot home in the 90+2nd minute, sending the home crowd into celebration.
The late strike proved decisive as NorthEast United began their campaign with a valuable victory over the defending champions from Kolkata.