Mohun Bagan Super Giant have done it again! With a dramatic last-minute strike from Dimitrios Petratos, they clinched a record-breaking Indian Super League (ISL) League Shield title, cementing their dominance in Indian football. Their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Odisha FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata on Sunday night made them the first-ever team to successfully defend the ISL League Shield.
A Champion’s Mentality
Mohun Bagan didn’t just win the title—they rewrote history. With 52 points, they pulled far ahead of their closest rivals, FC Goa, proving they were simply untouchable this season. While Odisha FC fought hard, a single moment of brilliance from Petratos in the dying moments of the game secured the victory, sending the Mariners’ faithful into a frenzy.
But this was no ordinary season. From the outset, Mohun Bagan showed their intent, overcoming early struggles and setbacks to build a side that was nearly unstoppable.
A Masterstroke of Change
The road to glory wasn’t always smooth. At the start of the campaign, the club made a bold move by parting ways with Antonio Habas—the most successful manager in ISL history. Stepping into the role was Jose Molina, a familiar face with a winning pedigree. The Spaniard’s tactical brilliance revitalized the squad, turning weaknesses into strengths and guiding the team to a season of unprecedented success.
Consider these jaw-dropping records:
- First team in ISL history to surpass 50 points.
- Most wins in a single season (16 and counting).
- Most home wins in a season (10 and counting).
- Most goals from set-pieces in a season (20 and counting).
- Most clean sheets in a season (14 and counting).
- First team ever to keep six consecutive clean sheets.
A Defensive Fortress, An Attacking Spectacle
At the heart of Mohun Bagan’s triumph was their defensive resilience. With key players like Subhasish Bose, Alberto Rodriguez, and Tom Aldred marshaling the backline, the team boasted the best defense in India. Their ability to shut out opponents while also contributing goals from set-pieces proved to be a game-changer.
Meanwhile, the attack thrived on individual brilliance. Liston Colaco, Jason Cummings, and Greg Stewart delivered crucial moments, while Australian striker Jamie MacLaren turned into an X-factor, scoring match-winning goals in six different games. Every time he found the net, Mohun Bagan won.
And yet, when it mattered most, it was Petratos—the clutch king of the ISL—who delivered the decisive blow.
A Simple Yet Unstoppable Formula
Molina’s philosophy was straightforward: defend as a unit, capitalize on attacking magic, and secure the three points. His approach worked to perfection. A rock-solid defense allowed the team’s high-risk, high-reward attacking strategy to flourish. And with Vishal Kaith emerging as India’s top goalkeeper, the Mariners had the perfect foundation for success.
In the end, it all came down to one moment of magic. In the 93rd minute, with Odisha FC down to 10 men, Petratos took his chance—turning and unleashing a stunning strike that sealed Mohun Bagan’s destiny.
Perfect Champions
Mohun Bagan’s season wasn’t just about winning—it was about setting new standards. They dominated, adapted, and ultimately achieved perfection. With the title secured, the Mariners now look ahead to new challenges, but one thing is certain: they are the undisputed kings of Indian football.
Their journey wasn’t just about lifting another trophy—it was about proving that greatness can be repeated. And as the celebrations begin, one thing remains clear: Mohun Bagan are not just champions. They are history makers.
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