Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s preparations for the Indian Super League (ISL) semifinals have taken a blow as star midfielder Lalengmawia Ralte, popularly known as Apuia, returned to Kolkata nursing an injury sustained during India’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh.
The 24-year-old limped into the post-match press conference after India’s goalless draw in Shillong on March 25 and appeared visibly distressed. While the nature of the injury to his right leg remains unclear, early assessments have raised concerns about his availability for the first leg of the ISL semifinal on April 3.
“We were lucky not to concede a goal and to get the draw. We could have done so much better,” Apuia admitted after the match, in which he struggled to leave his mark.
Despite the disappointment, he acknowledged the learning curve of facing high-level opposition like Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury, who represented Bangladesh.
“It was always good to play against players who play at the top level. He made it very difficult for us as well. But it was a good point for us to learn from them, the way they play, the intensity and the type of football they are playing. I think that’s very good for us to improve our level,” he added.
Mohun Bagan evaluated Apuia’s condition upon his return on Wednesday and immediately began rehabilitation protocols. The club has scheduled an MRI for Thursday to determine the full extent of the injury. Internally, the management is said to be displeased with the situation, which adds to an already growing injury list.
The Mariners are currently without forward Manvir Singh and full-back Asish Rai, both of whom are in recovery. Apuia’s absence would further deplete a squad already stretched thin ahead of a critical juncture in their season
Having joined Mohun Bagan from Mumbai City FC last summer, Apuia has been instrumental this season, making 25 appearances across competitions and helping the team win the ISL Shield and reach the Durand Cup final.
His leadership and experience will be vital as Mohun Bagan aim to reclaim the ISL Cup they last won in 2023. Ironically, it was Apuia’s former club Mumbai City that denied the Mariners the title last season, beating them in the final on their home turf.
Mohun Bagan will now await the outcome of the playoff clash between Jamshedpur FC and NorthEast United on March 30 to determine their semifinal opponent. But with their midfield lynchpin in doubt, the road to the final has suddenly become steeper.
