Mohun Bagan Beat Punjab FC 2-1 After Comeback, Climb to Top of ISL 2026-27 Table

Mohun Bagan Super Giant produced a spirited comeback to defeat Punjab FC 2-1 in the 2026-27 MG Indian Super League at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Saturday. Despite conceding an early goal, the Mariners responded through Lee Erwin and Dejan Dražić to secure a crucial home victory and move to the top of the league standings.

Punjab FC made an immediate impact, taking the lead in just the third minute. Sanathoi Meetei found Alfred Planas outside the penalty area, and the latter unleashed a powerful right-footed effort that beat goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.

The visitors continued to threaten, but Mohun Bagan gradually found their rhythm. An early injury to Sahal Abdul Samad forced the hosts into a change, with Anirudh Thapa replacing him in the 12th minute. The substitution proved decisive as Thapa played a key role in the equaliser six minutes later.

The midfielder picked out Erwin inside the box, and the forward calmly converted with his left foot to bring the Mariners level in the 18th minute.

Mohun Bagan pushed for a second goal, with Rahul Bheke coming close through a header from a Dražić corner. Their persistence eventually paid off in the 42nd minute. Erwin turned provider this time, laying the ball off for Dražić, who finished brilliantly from outside the box to put the hosts ahead.

Punjab goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh prevented further damage before half-time with important saves against Samir Zeljković and Erwin.

The second half saw Punjab search desperately for an equaliser, while Mohun Bagan looked to extend their advantage. Thapa, Deepak Tangri and Erwin all threatened, but Arshdeep remained busy between the posts. Planas also tested Kaith in the 75th minute, but the Mohun Bagan goalkeeper held firm.

Punjab pushed forward during the closing stages, but the Mariners defended resolutely through eight minutes of added time to preserve their advantage.

The 2-1 victory handed Mohun Bagan three valuable points and took them to the summit of the ISL 2026-27 standings, while Punjab FC were left to reflect on a missed opportunity after their promising start.