IFA Shield final: Zeljkovic’s goal gives Mohun Bagan record 22nd title with 1-0 win over East Bengal
The Bosnian midfielder scored on the stroke of half-time in the Kolkata derby at Salt Lake Stadium.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant beat arch-rivals East Bengal 1-0 in the IFA Shield final at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on Thursday, 8 October, extending their record to 22 titles in one of Indian football’s oldest tournaments. Bosnian midfielder Samir Zeljkovic scored the only goal on the stroke of half-time.
How the goal came
In a tight, physical first half, Sahal Abdul Samad lofted a ball into the box. Zeljkovic controlled it on his chest and drove a low shot past East Bengal goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa.
Key moments
- 10′: Mohun Bagan keeper Vishal Kaith blocked Edmund Lalrindika’s one-on-one chance.
- 30′: Mehtab Singh’s header hit the woodwork.
- 40′: Lachenpa made two diving saves to keep East Bengal level.
- 45′: Zeljkovic scored from Sahal’s chipped pass.
- 60′: East Bengal’s Sandip Mandi went off injured after a clash of heads, which led to a brief scuffle.
- 90+7′: in the seventh minute of stoppage time, Zeljkovic blocked Mohammed Rashid’s free kick from just outside the box.
East Bengal pushed hard for an equaliser after the break, but Mohun Bagan’s defence held firm.
The derby this season
The rivals have met several times this season. Mohun Bagan won the Durand Cup opener 1-0 in July, East Bengal hit back to win the Durand Cup final 4-1 in August, and the sides drew 1-1 in the Calcutta Football League in September. Thursday’s win gives Mohun Bagan the Shield for the second year running.
Sources: Outlook India, Zee News.
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