New Delhi: Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated arch-rivals East Bengal 1-0 to retain the IFA Shield title, with Samir Zeljkovic scoring the decisive goal in a fiercely contested Kolkata Derby at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.
Bosnian midfielder Zeljkovic struck in the 45th minute to secure Mohun Bagan’s 22nd IFA Shield title. The victory also completed a memorable season for the Mariners, who won both the Calcutta Football League (CFL) and the IFA Shield for the first time since 1976.
The decisive moment arrived just before half-time when Zeljkovic controlled a chipped pass from Sahal Abdul Samad on his chest before calmly slotting the ball past the East Bengal goalkeeper. His composed finish proved enough to separate the two sides in a closely fought encounter.
Neither team produced a particularly fluent attacking display, but Mohun Bagan looked more organised and composed than they had during their earlier Durand Cup final meeting, when East Bengal secured a convincing 4-1 victory.
East Bengal attempted to find an equaliser after the break but struggled to break through Mohun Bagan’s defensive organisation. Despite their determined efforts, the Red and Gold Brigade could not find the breakthrough needed to take the match into a more competitive finish.
East Bengal had entered the final in impressive form after thrashing NorthEast United FC 7-2 in the semi-finals, with David Lalhlansanga scoring a hat-trick. Mohun Bagan, meanwhile, had faced a tougher challenge against Punjab FC. After a goalless draw over 120 minutes, the Mariners advanced with a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Vishal Kaith playing an important role.
The final marked the second consecutive year that Mohun Bagan and East Bengal had met in the IFA Shield title clash. The Mariners had also beaten their rivals on penalties in the previous edition.
The triumph provides Mohun Bagan with valuable momentum ahead of the new Indian Super League season, while the result leaves East Bengal seeking a response after missing out on another major trophy.
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