Saturday saw the defending champions, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, commence their Indian Super League campaign in style with an assertive 3-1 win over the newly-promoted Punjab FC. From the get-go, Mohun Bagan seized control against the I-League newcomers. By the end of the first half, they had already secured a 2-0 advantage, thanks to stellar goals from Jason Cummings in the ninth minute and Dimitri Petratos in the 34th.
Punjab FC, however, managed to find a glimmer of hope early in the second half. Luka Majcen capitalized on a careless back pass by Glan Martins in the 53rd minute, slotting one into the net. This resurgence was short-lived, as Mohun Bagan retaliated with another goal, this time from India's very own forward, Manvir Singh, in the 63rd minute, underscoring their dominance.
The Mariners' early lead was initiated by a brilliant left-footed strike from Cummings, orchestrated by a pass from Indian midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad. This momentum was soon doubled by Petratos, who expertly converted a Liston Colaco assist with a neat finish to the bottom right corner. Following his introduction to the pitch, replacing Subhasish Bose, Manvir showcased his skills by directing a Petratos cross with a powerful right-footed shot to the net's top left corner.
An interesting off-pitch note: the match faced a 35-minute delay, ensuring there were no broadcasting overlaps. An earlier game between Odisha FC and Chennaiyin FC had been interrupted owing to inclement weather, prompting the shift in the telecast schedule.
With such a commanding start, Mohun Bagan Super Giant has set a promising tone for the ISL season, asserting their intent to retain their title.
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