Mohun Bagan Super Giant suffered a 0-1 defeat to Ahal FC in their Group C opener of the AFC Champions League Two 2025-26 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium on Tuesday.
The winner came in the 83rd minute when Enwer Annayev scored from close range after a cut-back from Basim Gurbanberdiyew, sealing three points for the Turkmenistan side.
Ahal threatened early, with Suleyman Mirzoyev missing a chance in the second minute. Mohun Bagan struggled defensively as Magtymberdi Berenov and Mirzoyev repeatedly tested the home side’s backline.
Mohun Bagan had their first clear opportunity in the 13th minute, but efforts from Liston Colaco and Sahal Abdul Samad were blocked. Jason Cummings shot over in the 37th minute after a neat exchange with Samad.
Ahal dominated the second half, with Berenov denied twice by Vishal Kaith and the post. Kaith made several key saves, including stops from Mirzoyev and Berenov in the closing stages. Samad missed a late chance for Mohun Bagan before the visitors finally broke the deadlock.
Mohun Bagan will face Iran’s Foolad Mobarakeh Sepahan SC in their second group match in Isfahan on September 30.
