Historic IFA Shield Returns; East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant Set for Epic Battle After Four Year Hiatus

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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. The tournament gained legendary status in 1911 when Mohun Bagan became the first all Indian team to lift the trophy, defeating the East Yorkshire Regiment in a victory that became symbolic of India's independence struggle.

From 2015 to 2018, the competition was redesigned as a youth tournament due to congested AIFF calendars including the ISL, I-League, and other competitions. However, recognizing its historical significance, the tournament returned to senior level competition in 2020, with Real Kashmir FC winning back to back titles in 2020 and 2021. Both East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant return to IFA Shield action after a significant gap. East Bengal last won the tournament in 2012, while Mohun Bagan Super Giant's last triumph came in 2003. For East Bengal, this marks their return after 13 years, while Mohun Bagan Super Giant rejoins after 22 years of absence from IFA Shield glory. Mohun Bagan Super Giant's controversial disqualification from the AFC Champions League Two in October 2024, following their refusal to travel to Iran due to safety concerns, inadvertently benefits their IFA Shield preparation. With continental commitments eliminated, the Mariners can field their full strength squad without foreign player restrictions or travel fatigue.

This presents the IFA Shield as the perfect preseason tournament before the crucial AIFF Super Cup starting from October 25 and the 2025-26 ISL season. Head coach Jose Molina can use these matches to test tactical formations and build match fitness, making the tournament invaluable preparation for bigger challenges ahead. East Bengal FC enters as overwhelming favorites after their remarkable domestic dominance. The Red and Gold Brigade recently scripted history by winning their 41st Calcutta Football League title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over United SC, while simultaneously receiving their 40th CFL trophy for the previous season. This back to back CFL success demonstrates their current supremacy in Bengal football. However, East Bengal FC's struggles in pan India competitions remain a concern. Their disappointing semi final exit to Diamond Harbour FC in the Durand Cup 2025 ended their dreams despite defeating arch rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2-1 in the quarter finals. The 2-1 defeat, featuring goals from former East Bengal players Mikel Kortazar and Joby Justin, highlighted their vulnerabilities in knockout scenarios. The IFA Shield provides East Bengal FC the perfect platform to address these shortcomings and build confidence for larger tournaments under head coach Oscar Bruzon. Diamond Harbour FC, the giant killers who stunned East Bengal FC in the Durand Cup semi finals, have withdrawn from the tournament despite initial confirmation. The I-League debutants, founded in 2022 and coached by Kibu Vicuña, chose to focus on their maiden I-League campaign. Mohammedan SC is also absent due to ISL commitments and scheduling conflicts. The Black Panthers, six time IFA Shield champions, were initially confirmed but later withdrew as their ISL engagements took priority. Gokulam Kerala FC aims to make their mark outside Kerala, using their I-League experience to challenge the Kolkata giants. Namdhari FC from Punjab brings geographical diversity and seeks to prove their mettle against established powerhouses. Sreenidi Deccan FC, the 2021 runners up who lost to Real Kashmir in the final, return with revenge on their minds and the experience of reaching the summit clash previously. United SC from Kalyani represents local West Bengal pride in the I-League 2 tier, hoping to cause upsets on familiar territory. Beyond the historic trophy, this tournament represents pride, preparation, and redemption. For East Bengal FC, it's a chance to translate CFL dominance into national level success. For Mohun Bagan Super Giant, it's an opportunity to utilize their full squad without continental distractions and build momentum for the Super Cup and ISL. The prospect of a Kolkata Derby final at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium would provide the perfect culmination to one of Indian football's oldest tournaments, reviving the glory days when the IFA Shield commanded nationwide attention and respect. As Bengal football prepares for this historic revival, the 125th IFA Shield promises to deliver compelling action, tactical battles, and the emotional intensity that has defined this legendary competition for over a century.