Maclaren Brace Secures Mohun Bagan Super Giant Victory Over Chennaiyin FC

Image Credit: All India Football Federation

Mohun Bagan Super Giant secured a 2-0 victory against Chennaiyin FC in Group A of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, on Saturday. Jamie Maclaren's double proved decisive as the Mariners claimed their first win in the tournament.

The match began in difficult conditions as rain made the pitch slippery, testing both sides' control and balance. Mohun Bagan Super Giant maintained a comfortable defensive structure through Thomas Aldred, Alberto Rodriguez and Mehtab Singh in the back line. In midfield, Apuia and Anirudh Thapa worked to stretch the Chennaiyin defence and create opportunities. Chennaiyin FC set up defensively and looked to strike on the counter attack. Dinpuia worked tirelessly in midfield to sustain pressure and allow his team to stay compact. The breakthrough came in the 38' when Liston played a clever back heeled pass to send Maclaren through, and the Australian finished with a snapshot to give Mohun Bagan Super Giant a 1-0 lead. Late in the first half, Chennaiyin pushed for an equaliser. Lalrinliana Hnamte had an effort, and an added time free kick was cleared, but Mohun Bagan Super Giant held on to their lead at the interval.

The second half began at a faster tempo as the rain eased. Chennaiyin FC earned a free kick in the 46' after Alberto received a yellow card, but their attempt lacked precision. In the 56', a cross from Jiteshwor found Irfan, whose header collided with Aldred, leaving both players grounded. Mohun Bagan Super Giant doubled their lead in the 67' when Manvir's cross from the left found Maclaren in close range, and the striker swept the ball home. Three minutes later, Anirudh Thapa's left footed shot drifted wide as Mohun Bagan Super Giant pressed for a third goal. With a two goal cushion, the Mariners controlled the game and created chances through exchanges on the flanks between Manvir and Liston Colaco. Chennaiyin's backline remained alert, and goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz made crucial saves to prevent further damage.

The final whistle blew with Mohun Bagan winning 2-0. The Mariners face Dempo SC next on Tuesday at Fatorda Stadium, while Chennaiyin FC play East Bengal FC on the same day in Bambolim.