INDIAN SUPER League
By Our Reporter
Shillong, Feb 7: NorthEast United FC’s much-anticipated debut at their new home ground in Shillong ended on a sour note as they succumbed to a 0-2 defeat against Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. The loss not only marked the Highlanders’ first defeat at this venue but also brought an end to their nine-match unbeaten run.
Mumbai City FC clinched the victory with goals from Bipin Singh in the 41st minute and captain Lallianzuala Chhangte deep into stoppage time (90+2’). This result saw NorthEast United slip from fourth to fifth in the ISL standings with 29 points from 20 matches (7 wins, 8 draws, and 5 losses). Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC surged from sixth to fourth, accumulating 31 points from 19 matches (8 wins, 7 draws, and 4 losses).
The breakthrough came late in the first half when Bipin Singh converted a pinpoint cross from Brandon Fernandes with a well-timed header, sending the ball into the top right corner beyond goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh’s reach. It was Bipin’s first goal of the season, giving the Islanders a 1-0 lead at halftime.
In the dying moments of the match, Chhangte sealed the win with a composed finish. A long clearance from Spanish defender Tiri sparked a swift counter-attack, with Chhangte sprinting past defenders and slotting a low left-footed shot into the net. Gurmeet Singh failed to secure the ball, allowing it to roll across the line and confirming Mumbai’s 2-0 triumph—Chhangte’s fourth goal of the season.Mumbai City dominated possession with 56% control and made the most of their limited opportunities, converting their only shot on target into a goal. NorthEast United, on the other hand, held 44% possession and fired eight attempts, but only two were on target, neither of which found the back of the net.Despite the loss, the atmosphere in Shillong was electric, as fans celebrated the city’s first-ever ISL match. “We’ve followed NorthEast United FC from the very start, but watching them play here in Shillong feels like home. The energy is electric, and it’s amazing to see our team getting so much love in Meghalaya!” said Rohit Das who came all the way from Guwahati.
Bijoy Deka, who traveled from Dibrugarh, shared, “This is more than just a match; it’s a celebration of Northeast football. Seeing our Highlanders play in Shillong shows how the region is uniting through football. We’re here to cheer them on till the final whistle!”
For local fans like Michael Kharkongor from Shillong, the event was surreal: “Having the Indian Super League in Shillong is a dream come true. We’ve always had a passion for football, and now the national spotlight is right here in Polo Ground. It’s surreal!”
Another enthusiastic supporter, Dimaya Nongrum, echoed the sentiment: “Shillong has always been known for its love of football, and now with ISL matches here, it feels like we’re finally getting the recognition we deserve.”