Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s triumphant Indian Super League 2024-25 campaign was nothing short of historic. The Kolkata giants shattered multiple records en route to lifting the ISL Shield, proving their dominance across all aspects of the game. However, their journey to the top was anything but straightforward.
It started, in typical Maidan fashion, by parting ways with their head coach, Antonio Habas. Though the club cited health reasons for his departure, his subsequent appointment at I-League side Inter Kashi suggested otherwise. The previous season had exposed cracks in Bagan’s machine, most notably their defensive lapses in the final loss to Mumbai City FC.
Enter Jose Molina. The Spaniard, who had previously led ATK to an ISL title, returned to the club and worked his magic. Under his guidance, Mohun Bagan not only addressed their weaknesses but also became an unstoppable force. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors that led them to ISL Shield glory.
1) Defensive Resurgence: The Best Backline in India
Mohun Bagan’s defence underwent a massive transformation under Molina. The team conceded 46% fewer goals than last season—a remarkable feat. The following records highlighted their defensive solidity. Mohun Bagan set a new benchmark in defensive solidity by keeping 14 clean sheets in a season (and counting), becoming the first team ever to record six consecutive clean sheets.
Subhasish Bose, Alberto Rodriguez, and Tom Aldred emerged as pillars of a watertight backline. Their ability to not only defend but also contribute in attack was pivotal, with Bose scoring six goals—the most by any defender in an ISL season. Rodriguez, too, matched the previous record of five. Molina’s tactical masterstroke was his emphasis on set-piece goals, making Bagan’s defenders an added threat in the opposition’s penalty box.
Losing key players like Anwar Ali, Joni Kauko, and Brendan Hamill could have derailed their campaign, but Molina fine-tuned the squad to ensure their absence barely impacted results. The defence, backed by the ever-reliable Vishal Kaith in goal, formed the foundation for Bagan’s dominance.
2. Clinical Attack: A Balance of Individual Brilliance and Tactical Discipline
Mohun Bagan’s attacking unit functioned with surgical precision throughout the season. While their defensive record was exemplary, the ability of their forwards to win games with moments of magic was equally crucial. Mohun Bagan showcased their attacking prowess by scoring the most set-piece goals in a season (20 and counting), with Liston Colaco, Jason Cummings, and Greg Stewart consistently delivering game-changing performances. Jamie MacLaren played a pivotal role, securing six match-winning goals throughout the campaign.
Molina’s game plan was simple but highly effective: defend resolutely and allow the attacking talent to express itself. The team excelled at grinding out wins, often relying on individual brilliance in crunch moments. MacLaren’s patience paid off, as he became the X-factor, scoring decisive goals and helping Bagan maintain their winning momentum. His contribution ensured that despite a slow start, the team never lost sight of their ultimate goal.
Dimi Petratos’ clutch performances in key moments further cemented Mohun Bagan’s attacking prowess. Their blend of structured play and moments of unpredictability made them a nightmare for opposition defences.
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3. Breaking Records and Setting New Standards
Mohun Bagan’s Shield-winning season wasn’t just about consistency; it was about rewriting history. The club broke several ISL records, proving their superiority across the board. The team also made history by becoming the first in ISL to surpass the 50-point mark while registering the most-ever wins in a season (16 and counting) and the most home wins in a single campaign (9 and counting).
These milestones reflect the team’s hunger for success and their relentless pursuit of excellence. From overcoming early-season hurdles—such as their Durand Cup final loss—to turning into an unstoppable juggernaut, Molina’s squad epitomized resilience and tactical brilliance.
The coach’s philosophy was evident in his pre-match comments: “We have to do the same thing we have been doing from the beginning—work hard, defend, attack, and stay united as a team, attacking and defending together, trying to concede as few goals as possible, trying to score as many goals as possible, and finally, try to win and get the three points.” That mindset defined Mohun Bagan’s season, ensuring they emerged as deserving champions.
Mohun Bagan SG’s journey to the ISL Shield was a masterclass in team-building, tactical adaptability, and individual brilliance. Under Jose Molina’s leadership, they transformed their weaknesses into strengths, boasting the best defence in the league while maintaining an attacking threat that few could match.
With a record-breaking season now in the books, the Mariners have set a new benchmark for excellence in Indian football. As they turn their focus to the ISL playoffs and beyond, one thing is clear—Mohun Bagan are not just champions; they are perfect champions.
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