Mohun Bagan Super Giant Triumphs Over Kerala Blasters in ISL Opener

Mohun Bagan Starts ISL Season with a Win

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], February 14: The reigning champions, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, kicked off the Indian Super League 2025-26 with a solid 2-0 win against Kerala Blasters FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharathi Krirangan (VYBK).

Jamie Maclaren opened the scoring in the first half (36') and Tom Aldred sealed the victory with a goal in injury time (90+6').

Head coach Sergio Lobera fielded a formidable squad featuring familiar players like Dimi Petratos, Jamie Maclaren, and Alberto Rodriguez, marking his debut match in charge of the team. New additions Mehtab Singh, Robson Da Silva, and Amey Ranawade also made their presence felt in the matchday lineup. Conversely, David Catala opted for a youthful team in his first ISL game, with foreign recruits Oumar Ba and Victor Bertomeu making their debuts alongside midfielders Y Ebindas and Rowllin Borges, as reported by an ISL press release.

Mohun Bagan dominated possession in the first half, with Anirudh Thapa and Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia) effectively managing the midfield, allowing Robson and Liston Colaco to exploit the flanks. Dimi Petratos returned to his favored No. 10 position behind Jamie Maclaren, who nearly scored early on. Liston Colaco set up Petratos in the box, but the forward's shot went off target.

Despite controlling the game, the Mariners struggled to penetrate Kerala Blasters' resilient defense. However, they broke the deadlock after a water break when Jamie Maclaren received a pass from Petratos, skillfully maneuvered past Aiban Dohling, and finished with a composed left-footed shot, marking the first goal of the ISL season. Mohun Bagan concluded the first half with a 1-0 lead, having taken ten shots, six of which were on target.

Catala made two substitutions at the start of the second half, introducing Naocha Singh and Marlon Trujillo, while Mohun Bagan replaced Subhasish Bose with Amey Ranawade. The second half saw the Mariners maintaining their dominance, controlling possession and forcing the Blasters to defend deeply.

Kerala Blasters gained momentum in the final quarter, particularly with Kevin Yoke's introduction, who showcased his speed and dribbling skills on the wings. However, they failed to create significant chances to challenge goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. In injury time, Mohun Bagan extended their lead when substitute Tom Aldred scored with a powerful header from Anirudh Thapa's free-kick.

Jamie Maclaren was awarded the Player of the Match.