Mohun Bagan trumps Mumbai City to win its first ISL League Shield
On Monday, April 15, Mohun Bagan secured its first ISL League Shield by defeating Mumbai City FC 2-1 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
Liston Colaco (28th) and Jason Cummings (80th) scored for Mohun Bagan, while Lallianzuala Chhangte scored for Mumbai City FC in the 89th minute from a freekick by Yoell van Nieff.
This victory also marked Mohun Bagan’s first win over the two-time Shield winners in four seasons, and in the process, breaking an eight-match unbeaten streak for Mumbai City FC, who had won six of those encounters.
Furthermore, this victory secured Mohun Bagan a place in the AFC Champions League 2 for the first time, amidst the resounding chants of ‘Mohun Bagan, Mohun Bagan’ echoing throughout the Salt Lake Stadium, where 60,000 fans had gathered.
Coach Antonio Habas, returning to the bench after a three-match absence due to illness, implemented a clear strategy, urging his players to deny City any space. While not every player executed the plan flawlessly, individuals like Bose, Joni Kauko and Anwar Ali showcased impressive performances throughout the game. Dimitri Petratos, as always, stood out as the livewire, providing two delightful assists and receiving the loudest cheers during the prize distribution ceremony.
“Undisputed champions of India,” proclaimed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Aroop Biswas extended his congratulations, too. Team owner Sanjiv Goenka expressed his delight and honour over the victory.
