ISL 2024-25: Mohammedan SC Post Maiden Win with 1-0 Victory Over Chennaiyin; Lalremsanga Fanai Scores Historic Winner

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Mohammedan SC secured their first-ever victory in the Indian Super League (ISL) with a 1-0 triumph over Chennaiyin FC in a dramatic clash. The victory came for Mohammedan on the road after failing to win their first two matches at home.

The historic moment came through Lalremsanga Fanai (39'), whose first-half goal was enough to hand the Kolkata-based side their maiden ISL win, leaving the home crowd at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in stunned silence.

The match started cautiously, with both teams feeling each other out in the opening minutes. Chennaiyin, coming off the back of a thrilling 3-2 win against Odisha FC, looked to press high and create early chances. However, Mohammedan's defense, led by Gaurav Bora and Jamal Adjei, stood firm in the face of relentless pressure.

The breakthrough came in the 43rd minute when a defensive mix-up between Dinliana and goalkeeper Samik Mitra left Fanai with an open goal. The striker made no mistake, pouncing on the loose ball to tap home and put Mohammedan ahead against the run of play. Chennaiyin, who had dominated possession and created more chances up until that point, were left to rue their defensive lapse.

As the second half progressed, Chennaiyin continued to pile on the pressure, with substitutes Lucas Barambilla and Wilmar Jordan Gil adding fresh energy to their attack. Yet, Mohammedan's defense held strong, and goalkeeper Padam Chhetri pulled off several crucial saves to keep his side in the lead.

The game reached fever pitch in stoppage time when Chennaiyin were awarded a penalty after Dinpuia fouled César Lobi Manzoki in the box. However, Manzoki's attempt from the spot went agonizingly wide, squandering Chennaiyin's golden opportunity to equalize. Moments later, Ryan Edwards missed another chance, heading wide from a cross as Chennaiyin threw everything forward in a frantic finish.

Despite Chennaiyin's late surge, Mohammedan held firm to clinch a famous victory. Fanai's goal not only secured all three points but also marked a momentous occasion for Mohammedan SC, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with in the ISL.

This win will undoubtedly boost Mohammedan's confidence as they seek to build momentum in their debut ISL season. For Chennaiyin, it was a frustrating night, one that highlighted their need to sharpen up defensively ahead of their next fixtures.