Indian football witnessed another milestone as Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the 136-year-old club, secured the Indian Super League (ISL) League Shield for the second consecutive season. This triumph sums up Mohun Bagan’s dominance and marks a new chapter in their legacy spanning over a century.
The Mariners clinched the title after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Odisha FC at the Salt Lake Stadium. The venue’s legacy has grown through the decades. The stadium erupted with joy as 60,000 fans celebrated their team reaching 52 points from 22 matches — an insurmountable lead with two games still to play.
With second-placed FC Goa capable of reaching only 51 points at best, Mohun Bagan’s triumph was officially sealed. The result makes them the first team in ISL history to win the shield with such commanding authority in a 13-team league.
The team’s remarkable consistency was reflected in their record-breaking campaign. It featured 16 wins, four draws, and just two losses. Along the way, Mohun Bagan shattered several records. These include a streak of six consecutive clean sheets and 14 shutouts across the season.
Their offensive prowess was equally impressive. The Mariners scored 43 goals — the highest in the league — while also boasting the tightest defense, conceding just 14.
The scale of the achievement was evident in the uncharacteristically emotional celebrations of head coach Jose Molina. He is a man known for his calm demeanor. The Spanish tactician, who previously served as the sporting director of the Spanish Football Federation, rushed onto the pitch, fists pumping, the moment the final whistle confirmed the Mariners’ crown.
“To win a trophy, you need to be a team. And it is not about having 11 players but a group of players,” Molina said, highlighting the collective spirit that fuelled their campaign. “A title is realized when everybody is working in the same direction. The support of the owner and management is critical. This includes the contribution of the coaching and supporting staff, and, of course, the quality and hard work of the players.”
This triumph further strengthens Molina’s bond with Kolkata. He guided ATK, the precursor to Mohun Bagan Super Giant following their merger in 2020, to the ISL Cup in 2016. Now, Molina’s return has proven golden once again.
Reflecting on the journey, he said, “Every title, for us as a player and coach, is special. You start with dreams at the beginning of the season. Then, it feels great when your plans and hard work bring results at the end.”
With the 2025 ISL Cup in his sights, Molina and his Mariners look set to continue their march into Indian football’s record books.
