Chhangte’s Late Heroics Earn Mumbai City a Point Against NorthEast

by Chandler D'silva March 2, 2026

Mumbai City FC salvaged a dramatic 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC at the Mumbai Football Arena, with Lallianzuala Chhangte stepping up late to rescue a point in the ISL 2025-26 clash.

The Islanders fielded an unchanged XI, while NorthEast United made three adjustments as both sides searched for early control. The visitors started brightly with good spells of possession but struggled to break through Mumbai’s disciplined backline.

Mumbai created the first clear chance when Chhangte’s powerful strike from distance was tipped over by Gurmeet Singh. Jorge Pereyra Díaz and Brandon Fernandes also tried their luck, while NorthEast responded through Jithin MS, who dragged an effort wide after a set-piece situation.

The first half ended without a goal despite promising moments from both teams.

NorthEast broke the deadlock just three minutes into the second half. A well-delivered free-kick from Andy Rodríguez caused confusion inside the box, and Jithin MS reacted sharply to fire a precise finish into the near post, handing the Highlanders a 1-0 lead.

The visitors continued to look dangerous from set-pieces, while Mumbai increased the tempo in search of an equaliser. Vikram Pratap Singh went close from distance, and Brandon saw an effort blocked as the Islanders pushed forward.

The breakthrough for Mumbai arrived in the 84th minute. Joni Kauko lifted a perfectly weighted ball into the path of Pereyra Díaz, whose shot was parried by Gurmeet. Chhangte was quickest to react, nodding home from close range to level the contest. The forward’s impact earned him the Player of the Match award.

Both sides had late opportunities to snatch victory, but neither could find the finishing touch. The match concluded 1-1, with the Islanders showing resilience to claw their way back into the contest.

After three gameweeks, Mohun Bagan Super Giant sit at the top with nine points, followed by Jamshedpur FC on goal difference. FC Goa and Mumbai City FC occupy third and fourth place respectively, both on seven points. Gameweek 4 kicks off on March 5, with East Bengal FC hosting FC Goa.

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