Kolkata, April 12 (NationPress) A sensational late free-kick from Jason Cummings clinched a thrilling 3-2 victory for Mohun Bagan Super Giant against Punjab FC in the Indian Super League 2025-26 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Sunday. The match showcased a back-and-forth battle where Dani Ramírez and Nsungusi Jr. initially put Punjab ahead, but Jamie Maclaren and Sahal Abdul Samad brought the Mariners back into contention before Cummings delivered the decisive blow in stoppage time.

This result allows Mohun Bagan to ascend to second place in the standings with 17 points, intensifying the chase for leaders Mumbai City FC, while Punjab FC remains in seventh place with 11 points. Jamie Maclaren earned the title of Player of the Match.

The game commenced energetically, with Mohun Bagan eager to seize control early. Maclaren had a chance within the first three minutes, but his shot was blocked by defender Bijoy Varghese. Punjab responded with long-range efforts, testing goalkeeper Vishal Kaith through Bede Osuji and Samir Zeljković.

Punjab struck first in the 12th minute through a well-orchestrated play on the left flank. Zeljković set up the attack, and Nsungusi Jr. Effiong missed his first attempt, allowing skipper Dani Ramírez to pounce on the ball and finish expertly, giving Punjab a 1-0 lead.

Things worsened for Mohun Bagan as Alberto Rodríguez had to exit the match due to injury. Nevertheless, the hosts began to find their rhythm, dominating possession and searching for gaps in the resolute Punjab defense.

The equalizer arrived in the 29th minute, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Jamie Maclaren. After a clever combination between Subhasish Bose and Robson, Maclaren found space in the box, skillfully evaded his marker, and rifled a shot past Arshdeep Singh at the near post.

As the first half progressed, both teams had opportunities to score again. Punjab looked threatening with efforts from Ramírez and Zeljković, while Mohun Bagan pushed forward through Robson and Liston Colaco, but neither team could capitalize before halftime.

The second half unfolded similarly, with both sides generating chances. Vishal Kaith had to make several crucial saves to deny Osuji and Nsungusi Jr., while Arshdeep Singh performed admirably for Punjab, particularly against a shot from Abhishek Singh.

Punjab regained the lead in the 60th minute through a swift attack. Ricky John Shabong advanced and linked up with Dani Ramírez, who set up Bede Osuji. A miscalculation from Mohun Bagan's defender Abhishek inadvertently assisted Nsungusi Jr., who volleyed into the far corner, making it 2-1.

Mohun Bagan responded assertively, and the introduction of Sahal Abdul Samad proved pivotal. In the 73rd minute, he unleashed a magnificent long-range effort that sailed into the top corner, leveling the score once more.

As the match approached its climax, both teams sought a winner. Punjab came close through Manglenthang Kipgen and Leon Augustine, while Nsungusi Jr. remained a constant threat, but Kaith held strong in goal for the Mariners.

In stoppage time, Mohun Bagan earned a critical free-kick. Jason Cummings took charge and executed a stunning left-footed strike that curled into the top-left corner. Despite Arshdeep's attempt to save it, the goal sealed a dramatic late victory for the home side.

Punjab pushed forward in the final moments looking for an equalizer, but Mohun Bagan adeptly managed the closing stages to secure all three points in an exhilarating match.

The final whistle confirmed a thrilling 3-2 win for Mohun Bagan Super Giant as they edged out a resilient Punjab FC in one of the season's most entertaining matches.