The match began with Sporting Club Delhi showing early intent, putting the visitors under pressure from the opening whistle. Juan Peña forced a save from Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith as early as the fourth minute, and the hosts continued to threaten shortly after when Lamgoulen Hangshing sent a strike over the crossbar following a corner kick. While the Mariners looked to respond through Lee Erwin and Rahul Bheke, they were unable to find a way past SC Delhi goalkeeper Nora Fernandes in the early stages.
Turning the Tide After the Break
The deadlock was eventually broken in the 23rd minute when Manoj Mohammad delivered a precise ball to Lalrinliana Hnamte. Hnamte made no mistake, firing a left-footed strike into the bottom-left corner to put the Phoenixes ahead. Despite further attempts from both sides, including long-range efforts from Rodriguinho and Miguel Figueira, the hosts maintained their narrow advantage heading into the half-time interval.
The complexion of the game shifted dramatically following the restart as Mohun Bagan returned with renewed urgency. Their persistence was rewarded in the 56th minute when Rahul Bheke located Lee Erwin inside the penalty area. Erwin displayed composure to slot the ball into the bottom-left corner, bringing the scores level at 1-1.
The momentum remained firmly with the visitors, who completed their turnaround just four minutes later. In the 60th minute, Lalengmawia Ralte provided the assist for Miguel Figueira, who clinically finished with his left foot to secure a 2-1 lead. Mohun Bagan successfully defended their advantage for the remainder of the contest to walk away with all three points.
