Mohun Bagan Triumphs Over East Bengal in IFA Shield Final After 22-Year Wait

October 31, 2025 By usmanthotti Sports 2 min read

Mohun Bagan Triumphs Over East Bengal in IFA Shield Final After 22-Year Wait

On October 18, 2025, Mohun Bagan Super Giant clinched their 21st IFA Shield title by defeating arch-rivals East Bengal 5-4 in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. This victory marks Mohun Bagan’s first IFA Shield win in 22 years, ending a prolonged title drought in this historic tournament.

Match Highlights

The final commenced with both teams displaying aggressive intent. East Bengal took the lead in the 36th minute when Moroccan forward Hamid Ahadad capitalized on a defensive lapse to score. Mohun Bagan had an opportunity to equalize earlier, but Australian striker Jason Cummings missed a penalty in the 34th minute, sending his shot over the crossbar.

Just before halftime, Mohun Bagan’s midfielder Apuia leveled the score with a stunning left-footed strike from the edge of the box, which hit the crossbar and bounced in, making it 1-1 at the break.

Penalty Shootout Drama

With no goals in the second half, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout. Both teams converted their initial four penalties. In the decisive moment, Mohun Bagan’s goalkeeper Vishal Kaith made a crucial save, allowing his team to secure a 5-4 victory in the shootout.

Historical Significance

This win is particularly significant for Mohun Bagan, as it ends a 22-year wait for the IFA Shield title, bringing their total to 21 championships in this prestigious tournament. The victory also serves as redemption for their earlier loss to East Bengal in the Durand Cup quarterfinals in August 2025, where East Bengal emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline.

East Bengal’s performance in the final was commendable, especially considering their recent 3-2 victory over Mohun Bagan in the Calcutta Football League in July 2025. However, the IFA Shield final loss underscores the intense and fluctuating nature of this storied rivalry.

As both teams look ahead, this match adds another chapter to the rich history of the Kolkata Derby, with fans eagerly anticipating their next encounter.