Despite Punjab FC taking the lead twice through Dani Ramirez and Nsungusi Jr. Effiong, Mohun Bagan fought back with goals from Jamie Maclaren and Sahal Abdul Samad. Cummings’ late strike ultimately decided the closely fought contest.

Following this result, Mohun Bagan moved up to second place in the standings with 17 points, maintaining pressure on league leaders Mumbai City FC, while Punjab FC remained seventh with 11 points. Jamie Maclaren was named Player of the Match.

The match began at a lively pace, with Mohun Bagan seeking early dominance. Maclaren had the first chance within three minutes, but centre back Bijoy Varghese blocked his effort. Punjab responded with shots from distance by Bede Osuji and Samir Zeljkovic, showing confidence in possession.

Punjab opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a well-constructed move. Zeljkovic initiated play and Muhammed Uvais advanced, delivering a teasing cross into the box. After Nsungusi Jr. Effiong missed his initial attempt, captain Dani Ramirez reacted quickest to control the ball and finish, giving Punjab a 1-0 lead.

Mohun Bagan faced a setback when Alberto Rodriguez was injured and substituted. The hosts recovered to control possession and seek openings against a solid Punjab defence.

Jamie Maclaren equalised in the 29th minute with a solo effort. A smart exchange between captain Subhasish Bose and Robson released him inside the box, where he evaded his marker before firing a powerful strike into the near post, leaving Arshdeep Singh no chance.

The remainder of the first half was an open contest with both teams exchanging chances. Punjab threatened through Ramirez and Zeljkovic, while Mohun Bagan pushed forward via Robson and Liston Colaco, but no further goals were scored before halftime.

The second half continued with both teams creating chances. Vishal Kaith made key saves against Osuji and Nsungusi Jr., while Arshdeep Singh denied Abhishek Singh at the other end.

Punjab regained the lead at the hour mark through a quick attacking move. Ricky John Shabong combined with Ramirez, who passed to Osuji. An attempted tackle by Mohun Bagan defender Abhishek turned into a cross for Nsungusi Jr., who volleyed powerfully into the far corner to make it 2-1.

Mohun Bagan responded with increased urgency. In the 73rd minute, Sahal Abdul Samad scored with a stunning strike from over 30 yards, equalising once more.

In the closing stages, both sides looked for a winner. Punjab came close through Manglenthang Kipgen and Leon Augustine, with Nsungusi Jr. remaining a threat, but Kaith stood firm for Mohun Bagan.

In stoppage time, Mohun Bagan earned a free-kick in a dangerous position. Jason Cummings curled a left-footed shot into the top-left corner, beating goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh to seal the victory.

Punjab pushed forward in the final moments seeking an equaliser, but Mohun Bagan managed the game effectively to secure all three points in a thrilling and fiercely contested match.