East Bengal FC began their IFA Shield 2025 campaign with a comfortable 4–0 win over Sreenidi Deccan FC at the Kalyani Stadium. Debutant left back Jay Gupta opened the scoring in the 21st minute. Miguel Figueira’s freekick was pushed away by the Sreenidi Deccan goalkeeper, and Jay Gupta reacted quickest to tap the ball in from close range. East Bengal doubled their lead in the 38th minute when Bipin Singh’s cross found Saul Crespo, whose header guided the ball past the keep

The prestigious 125th IFA Shield returns to Indian football after a four-year absence, with the tournament set to commence on October 8, 2025. This historic competition, established in 1893, represents one of the world's oldest football tournaments and serves as a significant milestone in Indian sporting heritage. The IFA Shield's illustrious history spans 132 years, making it the third oldest football competition in India after the Durand Cup and Trades Cup.