ISL 2024-25: Remsanga's Late Penalty Secures Draw for Mohammedan Against Chennaiyin

Kolkata, Jan 15 (NationPress) Manvir Singh and Remsanga each netted a goal in injury time, allowing Mohammedan SC to rally from behind and secure a 2-2 draw against Chennaiyin FC during the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season at the Kishore Bharati Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Laldinpuia Pachua initiated the scoring for Chennaiyin FC in the 10th minute, followed by Lukas Brambilla extending their advantage in the 49th minute. However, Manvir Singh brought Mohammedan SC back into contention in added time (90+5’) and Remsanga delivered the equalizer (90+12’) just before the final whistle. Notably, Connor Shields provided two exceptional assists, placing him at the top of the assist leaderboard this season with 8.

The match commenced slowly, with both sides initially cautious before attempting ambitious passes. Mohammedan SC showcased an energetic performance, especially with Mirjalol Kasimov adopting a more offensive position in the absence of Alexis Gomez. The Uzbek midfielder advanced effectively, linking up with Carlos Franca, and attempted a long-range shot, albeit without testing Mohammed Nawaz in goal.

Despite their promising start, the home team fell behind in the 10th minute when Connor Shields delivered a corner that found Laldinpuia unmarked in the penalty area. The defender expertly headed the ball past Padam Chhetri in goal, granting the Marina Machans an unexpected early lead. This goal infused Chennaiyin FC with confidence, allowing them to control the ball more effectively. Mohammedan SC nearly equalized in the 20th minute when Franca broke through Elsinho and entered the penalty area, but his shot narrowly missed the target.

In the 28th minute, Andrey Chernyshov’s team had a prime opportunity to equalize when Nawaz fouled Remsanga in the box. Unfortunately for the hosts, Nawaz redeemed himself by saving Kasimov’s penalty kick, marking the third time this season Mohammedan SC had missed a penalty.

The first half concluded with Chennaiyin FC nearly doubling their lead when Lukas Brambilla set up Wilmar Jordan Gil for a clear shot on goal, only for Padam to make a crucial save.

After halftime, Chennaiyin FC emerged with heightened intensity, capitalizing on Kasimov’s indecision to exploit Mohammedan SC's defensive line. Shields regained possession and assisted Brambilla, who coolly slotted the ball past Padam for their second goal in the 49th minute.

The second half was marked by aggressive tackles from both teams, but Mohammedan SC struggled to penetrate Chennaiyin FC's defense. The early goal allowed the visitors to relax their approach.

As Mohammedan SC sought to stage a comeback, they created several opportunities, including a close shot from Joe Zoherliana that hit the crossbar. Franca attempted a cross into the box, but Vanlalzuidika Chhakchhuak just missed the target.

In an effort to secure the win, Owen Coyle made substitutions, bringing on Daniel Chima Chukwu and Vignesh Dakshinamurthy. In the final ten minutes, Mohammedan SC pushed forward in numbers, finally rewarded when substitutes Makan Winkle Chothe and Manveer Saini combined, with Saini scoring in injury time.

The hosts ended the match with a surge of attacks and broke through Chennaiyin FC's defense when Laldinpuia fouled Manvir in the penalty area, resulting in a penalty for Mohammedan SC. Laldinpuia was sent off for the foul, leaving the visitors with ten men. However, in a dramatic conclusion, Remsanga converted the penalty (90+12), leading to a memorable draw for the hosts.

Mohammedan SC will next face Mumbai City FC on January 26, while Chennaiyin FC will host Mohun Bagan Super Giant on January 21.