Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal Set for Historic IFA Shield Final

Kolkata, Oct 15 (PTI) Mohun Bagan Super Giant secured a date with legacy as they prepare to face arch-rivals East Bengal in the IFA Shield final, marking an anticipated clash— the third Kolkata derby in under three months. This opportunity was sealed after Mohun Bagan decisively defeated United SC 2-0 in a group stage encounter this past Wednesday.

The Mariners' intent was clear as they surged ahead with a goal from Dimitri Petratos in the 44th minute, followed by an own goal forced in the 49th minute. Displaying efficiency, Bagan topped Group B, seamlessly securing their place in Saturday’s final at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium.

East Bengal, having previously triumphed in Group A with a 2-0 victory against Namdhari FC, now stands as the formidable challenger.

Petratos found the target just before the break, capitalizing on a slick cross delivered by Jason Cummings. Soon after halftime, Mohun Bagan doubled their advantage when a free-kick by Robson led to chaos in the box. Cummings' effort ricocheted off United SC's goalkeeper Sujal Munda and then deflected off defender Ankan Bhattacharya to find the back of the net.

This win sets the stage for another electrifying face-off between the two giants— a spectacle promised to be a real crowd-puller, being the third meeting since July.

East Bengal had previously edged out Mohun Bagan 3-2 in the Calcutta Football League Premier League on July 26, albeit with their developmental squad. They further solidified their dominance with a 2-1 win in the Durand Cup quarterfinal on August 18, breaking a six-match senior derby drought since their victory on August 12, 2023.

Marking its 125th edition, the IFA Shield makes a notable return post a three-year hiatus, featuring six participating teams: two from ISL, three from the I-League, and one from I-League 2.

East Bengal, Namdhari, and Sreenidi Deccan were placed in Group A, while Group B saw contest among Mohun Bagan, Gokulam Kerala, and United SC.