Simao Sabrosa's early penalty held up as the winner as NorthEast United defeated Atletico de Kolkata on Saturday.

Atletico de Kolkata gave away a penalty when Ofentse Nato was whistled in the box following a corner kick. Simao converted for the game's only goal in the ninth minute.

The hosts went in search of an equaliser and controlled much of the action but could not beat the NorthEast defence as they dug in deep.

The result brought Northeast level with their opponent on 10 points through eight games.