Mohammedan Sporting Stages Stunning Comeback to Hold Chennaiyin FC 2-2 in ISL 2024-25 Clash

In a thrilling Indian Super League (ISL) encounter, Mohammedan Sporting snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw against Chennaiyin FC at the Kishore Bharati Stadium on Wednesday, scoring twice in injury time to salvage a point.

Chennaiyin appeared to have secured victory with a two-goal advantage courtesy of strikes from Pachuau Laldinpuia and Lukas Brambilla. However, Mohammedan Sporting staged a sensational comeback in the dying moments of the game.

Chennaiyin took an early lead in the 10th minute when Laldinpuia converted Connor Shields’ perfectly placed corner into a close-range header. Mohammedan had an opportunity to equalize in the 27th minute with a penalty, but Mirjalol Kasimov’s attempt was saved by Chennaiyin goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz.

The visitors doubled their lead early in the second half, with Brazilian midfielder Lukas Brambilla finding the back of the net in the 49th minute. The Marina Machans seemed poised for victory, dominating possession and creating multiple chances.

However, Mohammedan Sporting, buoyed by the home crowd, turned the game on its head during nine minutes of added time. Substitute Manvir Singh Saini ignited the comeback in the 95th minute with a well-taken angular shot, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

In the final moments of the game, Manvir Singh was fouled inside the box by Laldinpuia, earning Mohammedan a penalty and seeing the Chennaiyin defender sent off. Lalremsanga Fanai stepped up to the spot and calmly converted in the 101st minute, completing the dramatic turnaround.

Mohammedan’s coach praised his team’s resilience. “The players showed incredible character to fight until the very end. This is the spirit we need going forward,” he said.

Despite the draw, the standings remain unchanged. Chennaiyin FC sits in 10th place with 17 points from 16 matches, while Mohammedan Sporting remains 12th with 11 points from the same number of games.

This match follows Mohammedan’s surprise 1-0 win over Bengaluru FC earlier in the week, showcasing the team’s determination despite a challenging season.

The result left Chennaiyin FC frustrated, with their coach lamenting missed opportunities and lapses in concentration. “We controlled the game for 90 minutes but let it slip in the end. This is a hard lesson for us,” he said.