Mohun Bagan Super Giant secured a spot in the IFA Shield final with a commanding 2-0 victory over United SC on Wednesday, paving the way for a high-stakes Kolkata Derby against arch-rivals East Bengal on October 18 at Salt Lake Stadium. This marks the third clash between the two football giants in less than three months, intensifying a rivalry that has defined Indian football for over a century. The 125th edition of the IFA Shield, returning after a three-year hiatus, has reignited excitement, with fans anticipating a fierce battle between the city’s most storied clubs, fuelled by recent competitive encounters.
Mohun Bagan’s clinical performance at Kishore Bharati Krirangan saw Australian striker Dimitri Petratos break the deadlock in the 44th minute, converting a precise cross from Jason Cummings. The lead doubled early in the second half when a Robson free kick sparked chaos in United’s penalty area, resulting in an own goal by defender Ankan Bhattacharya after a deflection off goalkeeper Sujal Munda. The win ensured Mohun Bagan topped Group B, which included Gokulam Kerala and United SC, while East Bengal secured Group A with a 2-0 victory over Namdhari FC. The IFA Shield’s six-team format, featuring two Indian Super League (ISL) sides, three I-League teams, and one from I-League 2, has set the stage for this blockbuster final.
The Kolkata Derby’s recent history adds spice to the upcoming showdown. East Bengal edged Mohun Bagan 3-2 in the Calcutta Football League (CFL) on July 26, 2025, with their developmental squad, followed by a 2-1 upset in the Durand Cup quarterfinals on August 18—their first senior derby win in six matches since August 2023. Mohun Bagan, however, regained bragging rights with a 1-0 ISL victory in September, thanks to Jamie Maclaren’s record-breaking fastest Derby goal. Social media buzz, with posts like “Derby fever is back! #MBvsEB” trending, reflects the city’s electric anticipation, though some fans noted Mohun Bagan supporters’ protests against owner Sanjiv Goenka during the United SC match.
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East Bengal, with a record 29 IFA Shield titles, aims to extend their dominance, while Mohun Bagan, with 20 titles, seeks their first since 2003. The Mariners’ recent haul of five major trophies since 2023, including the 2024-25 ISL crown, makes them slight favourites, but East Bengal’s resurgence under coach Bino George promises a tight contest. As Kolkata prepares for Saturday’s spectacle, the Derby—steeped in history since Mohun Bagan’s iconic 1911 triumph over British regiments—remains a cultural touchstone, uniting and dividing fans in equal measure.
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