ISL 2024: Late strike helps NEUFC beat debutants Mohammedan Sporting 1-0

Mohammedan Sporting suffered a heartbreaking defeat in their Indian Super League debut, conceding a stoppage-time goal to recently-crowned Durand Cup champions NorthEast United FC here on Monday.

Coming on as a substitute for Nestor Albiach in the 57th minute, NorthEast United's Moroccan midfielder Alaeddine Ajaraie delivered a moment of brilliance in the fourth minute of the injury time (90+4), calmly slotting home to hand Mohammedan Sporting a harsh reality check.

Despite showing resilience and flashes of promise throughout the match, the Andrey Chernyshov-coached Kolkata side, who earned promotion to the ISL after winning last season's I-League, missed several chances.

"They're a much more experienced side, and winning the Durand Cup gave them valuable match time ahead of the season," said Russian coach Chernyshov.

"We deserved at least a point from this game, but I'm proud of the boys' performance. They showed great promise, and I'm confident we'll keep improving with each ...