In a gripping Kolkata Derby that lived up to its legendary billing, Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated arch-rivals East Bengal FC 5–4 on penalties to lift the IFA Shield 2025 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday. The match, which ended 1–1 after extra time, saw drama, emotion, and redemption as Mohun Bagan claimed their first IFA Shield title in 22 years.
Early Drama And Missed Opportunities
Mohun Bagan started strong, creating early chances through Jason Cummings and Liston Colaco. However, East Bengal drew first blood in the 37th minute when Moroccan striker Hamid Ahadad capitalized on a defensive lapse to put his side ahead. Mohun Bagan had the opportunity to level soon after when Cummings earned a penalty, but the Australian forward blasted his shot over the bar, leaving the Mariners frustrated.
Apuia’s Equalizer Brings Bagan Back
Just before half-time, Apuia Ralte produced a moment of brilliance, striking a powerful effort from the edge of the box to make it 1–1. The goal rejuvenated Mohun Bagan’s spirit, and both teams fought fiercely in the second half, though neither could find the decisive breakthrough.
Tactical Decisions Define The Shootout
With the scoreline unchanged after extra time, the final moved to penalties. East Bengal made a surprising decision, substituting goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill for veteran Debjit Majumder—a move that ultimately backfired. Mohun Bagan’s penalty takers—Manvir Singh, Cummings, and Subhasish Bose—kept their composure, while East Bengal’s Jay Gupta saw his spot-kick saved by Vishal Kaith, sealing Mohun Bagan’s victory.
Historic Moment For The Mariners
The win marks Mohun Bagan’s 21st IFA Shield title and their first since 2003, ending a two-decade drought in one of India’s oldest football competitions. Head coach Antonio López Habas praised his team’s mental strength, saying, “We showed character when it mattered most. This victory belongs to our supporters who have waited too long.”
East Bengal Left To Regroup
For East Bengal, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow after a promising campaign. Their manager, Carles Cuadrat, admitted that tactical choices in the closing stages didn’t go as planned. “We had our chances, but in a derby like this, small margins decide everything,” he said.
A New Chapter In The Kolkata Derby
Saturday’s final added another memorable chapter to the century-old rivalry. With Mohun Bagan’s resurgence and East Bengal’s continued pursuit of silverware, the Kolkata Derby once again proved why it remains the heart and soul of Indian football.
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