Mohun Bagan Super Giant returned to winning ways with a commanding 3-1 comeback victory over Punjab FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season on Thursday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. The win solidified Mohun Bagan’s position atop the league table with 29 points, five clear of second-placed Bengaluru FC.
Punjab FC began brightly and stunned the visitors with an early goal. In the 12th minute, Ricky Shabong capitalized on defensive lapses to score a brilliant solo goal. Driving forward from the left flank, the young midfielder beat Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith with a clinical finish, giving Punjab FC a deserved lead.
Mohun Bagan struggled to respond in the first half, with Punjab’s all-Indian backline standing firm. Pramveer Singh, who became the youngest player to start an ISL match at 17 years and 189 days, was particularly impressive in thwarting the Mariners’ attacking duo of Jamie Maclaren and Jason Cummings.
The tide turned in the second half as Mohun Bagan came out with renewed intent. The equaliser arrived in the 48th minute when Alberto Rodriguez headed home a well-delivered corner from Cummings. This marked Mohun Bagan’s seventh goal from a corner this season, the highest in the league.
Punjab FC’s situation worsened three minutes later when Ezequiel Vidal was sent off for dissent after being booked for a foul on Liston Colaco. Reduced to 10 men, Punjab struggled to contain the Mariners’ relentless attack.
Mohun Bagan took the lead in the 63rd minute through a penalty. Anirudh Thapa was brought down in the box, and Maclaren converted with precision to make it 2-1. Six minutes later, Rodriguez completed his brace, capitalizing on a perfectly placed corner from Thapa. The Spaniard’s composed finish sealed the win for the visitors.
Speaking after the match, Mohun Bagan coach Jose Molina praised his team’s resilience. “We showed character and patience after going down early. The team’s ability to exploit set-piece opportunities was crucial,” he said.
For Punjab FC, it was a missed opportunity to climb the table, with coach Staikos Vergetis lamenting the red card and defensive lapses. “We started well, but losing a man changed the game. It’s something we need to learn from,” he stated.
