The Indian Super League (ISL) final is heating up as Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) faces Bengaluru FC at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. On April 12, 2025, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter that promises to be a showcase of elite football talent and intense rivalry.
This marks the fifth time Mohun Bagan has reached the ISL final, aiming for their second title after clinching their first last season against the very same opponents, Bengaluru FC. The Mariners, managed by Jose Molina, are riding high on momentum after a strong season, finishing at the top of the league table with 17 wins from 24 matches. However, their path to the final has not been without challenges. After suffering a 2-1 defeat in the first leg of the semi-finals against Jamshedpur FC, they made a remarkable comeback at home, winning 2-0 in the second leg, thanks to a penalty from Jason Cummings and a dramatic last-minute strike by Lalengmawia Ralte.
Bengaluru FC, on the other hand, is looking for redemption after their heartbreaking loss on penalties in the 2023 final. Under the guidance of coach Gerard Zaragoza, the Blues have shown resilience throughout the playoffs. They edged past FC Goa in the semi-finals, with veteran striker Sunil Chhetri scoring a stunning stoppage-time volley to secure their place in the final.
As the match kicks off at 7:30 PM IST, both teams are keen to assert their dominance early on. Mohun Bagan, known for their attacking prowess led by Cummings and Jamie Maclaren, will look to capitalize on their home advantage. Meanwhile, Bengaluru FC, featuring Chhetri and Ryan Williams, aims to exploit any defensive lapses from the Mariners.
In their previous encounters, Mohun Bagan has had the upper hand, winning 10 out of the 13 matches played against Bengaluru FC, including the previous final. However, the stakes are high, and both teams are aware that past records can mean little in a high-pressure final.
The first half begins with an electric atmosphere as fans from both sides fill the stadium. Mohun Bagan starts the game in their traditional green and maroon colors, while Bengaluru FC dons their blue. Early exchanges see both teams probing for weaknesses, with Mohun Bagan looking to establish their rhythm.
As the first half unfolds, Bengaluru FC begins to dominate possession, with their midfielders controlling the pace of the game. Sunil Chhetri's experience is evident as he orchestrates attacks, while the Mohun Bagan defense, led by Subhasish Bose, works hard to contain the threats.
Despite a few promising moments for both sides, the first half concludes without any goals, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the second half. Bengaluru FC has shown tactical superiority, frustrating the home crowd and keeping Mohun Bagan at bay.
As the second half kicks off, the tension in the stadium is palpable. Both teams are looking to make a decisive move. In the 49th minute, Bengaluru FC takes the lead in a rather unfortunate turn of events for Mohun Bagan. An attempted clearance by Alberto Rodriguez inadvertently loops over goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, marking an own goal that puts Bengaluru FC ahead 1-0.
The Mariners now find themselves in a challenging position, needing to regroup quickly. The home fans rally behind their team, creating a vibrant atmosphere as Mohun Bagan pushes forward in search of an equalizer. Cummings, who has been a key player throughout the season, attempts to spark the attack but finds himself thwarted by Bengaluru's solid defense.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Bengaluru's goalkeeper, is called into action multiple times as Mohun Bagan intensifies their efforts. In the 58th minute, he makes a crucial save, denying Cummings a chance to level the score. The momentum shifts back and forth, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to convert.
As the match progresses, Bengaluru FC continues to showcase their defensive discipline, frustrating Mohun Bagan's attempts to find a breakthrough. The visitors remain composed, looking to capitalize on any mistakes from the Mariners while maintaining their slim lead.
With time running out, Mohun Bagan ramps up the pressure, launching wave after wave of attacks. The home crowd's chants fill the stadium, urging their team to find that elusive equalizer. However, Bengaluru's defense holds firm, and every minute that passes adds to the tension.
As the clock ticks down, the stakes become even higher. Mohun Bagan's players are visibly pushing themselves to the limit, striving for a goal that could change the course of the match. In a dramatic turn of events, they earn a series of corner kicks, each one sparking hope among the fans.
But Bengaluru FC, bolstered by their lead and the resilience shown throughout the playoffs, remains steadfast. The combination of tactical discipline and individual brilliance from players like Chhetri proves crucial as they manage to clear the danger time and again.
As the final whistle approaches, Mohun Bagan's desperation to equalize is palpable. They throw everything forward, but Bengaluru FC's defense, supported by a stellar performance from Gurpreet, withstands the barrage. The match ends with Bengaluru FC claiming victory, marking a significant redemption after their previous final defeat.
This encounter not only highlights the fierce rivalry between these two teams but also underscores the unpredictability of football, where every match can rewrite history. As Bengaluru FC celebrates their triumph, Mohun Bagan will surely regroup and look ahead to future challenges, knowing they have the talent and determination to bounce back.
