ISL 2025-26: Chhangte’s late strike scores draw for Mumbai City FC against NorthEast United FC

A late equalizer from Lallianzuala Chhangte helped Mumbai City FC secure a 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC in the 2025-26 Indian Super League at the Mumbai Football Arena on Sunday, March 1.

The result takes Mumbai City FC provisionally to fourth place in the standings with seven points from three matches, while NorthEast United FC remain 10th with two points. Chhangte was named Player of the Match after scoring the late equalizer.

NorthEast United FC started the match well and enjoyed great possession during the opening exchanges. However, the visitor struggled to convert that control into clear chances in the final third, with Mumbai City FC remaining compact at the back.

The first notable chance came in the eleventh minute for Mumbai City FC. Chhangte attempted a left-footed strike from distance, forcing goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh to make a sharp save as he tipped the ball over the crossbar.

Mumbai City FC looked the most threatening side midway through the first half, with Jorge Pereyra Díaz and Brandon Fernandes both having attempts that narrowly missed the target. NorthEast United FC responded with some promising moments, including a chance for Jithin MS in the penalty area, but the effort went wide.

Despite a lively opening period, neither side was able to apply sustained pressure. Both teams showed attacking intentions but lacked the finishing touch in the final third. The first half ended goalless and the match was in the balance.

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NorthEast United FC broke through shortly after the restart. In the 48th minute, Andy Rodríguez delivered a teasing free kick into the penalty area after a foul in the attacking half. The ball eventually fell to Jithin, who struck a composed right-foot shot from a tight angle into the near post to give the visitor a 1-0 lead.

The goal boosted NorthEast United FC’s confidence as it looked to build on their advantage. However, Mumbai City FC responded by pushing more players forward in search of an equalizer. Brandon saw an effort blocked, while Vikram Pratap Singh tried his luck from distance as the home side increased the tempo.

As the match entered the final quarter, Mumbai City FC began to apply sustained pressure. NorthEast United FC remained dangerous on set pieces, but struggled to retain possession for long periods.

The equalizer eventually came in the 84th minute through a well-executed action. Joni Kauko played a precise pass into the path of Pereyra Díaz, whose powerful shot was parried by Gurmeet. Chhangte reacted quickest inside the six-yard box and headed the rebound into the net to bring Mumbai City FC level.

In the final minutes, both teams looked for a winner. Chhangte had another chance in stoppage time, as NorthEast United FC tried to threaten on the counter-attack. However, neither side could find the decisive goal.

Published on March 1, 2026