Mohun Bagan Super Giant Dominate Gokulam Kerala in IFA Shield Opener

Mohun Bagan Super Giant began their IFA Shield 2025 campaign with a commanding 5-1 victory over Gokulam Kerala FC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Wednesday. The Mariners put up a clinical performance to establish their credentials as serious contenders for the historic tournament.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant took control early when an own goal from Rishad gave them the lead in the 11'. The advantage was doubled in the 27' through Jamie Maclaren, who found the net emphatically with an effort from long range. Mohun Bagan Super Giant went into the break 2-0 ahead, having dominated proceedings against Gokulam Kerala.

Gokulam Kerala briefly threatened a comeback when Apuia scored an own goal three minutes into the second half, reducing the deficit to 2-1. However, any hopes of a revival were quickly extinguished as the Mariners went on a scoring spree. Alberto Rodriguez restored the two goal cushion in the 51'. Three minutes later, Robson Robinho marked his debut start with a goal, extending the lead to 4-1. The Brazilian forward, who joined from Água Santa, made an immediate impact in his first competitive start for the club. Maclaren completed his brace and sealed the victory in the 75', finishing off a well worked move to make it 5-1. The Australian striker was named Man of the Match for his two goal contribution.

The result puts Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the top of Group B, with goal difference likely to be crucial in determining the final standings. Coach José Francisco Molina was without several key players including Liston Colaco, Deepak Tangri and Sahal Abdul Samad, who are on national team duty. Gokulam Kerala struggled to cope with the intensity and pace of the Mariners' attack. The Kerala club will need to regroup quickly for their next fixture against United SC.

The victory sets up Mohun Bagan Super Giant perfectly for their remaining group stage matche against United SC on 15th October, 2025 as they aim to reach the final scheduled for October 18 at Salt Lake Stadium. With their attacking trio of Maclaren, Rodriguez and new man Robinho finding form, the 20 time IFA Shield winners will fancy their chances of adding another title to their trophy cabinet.