Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal IFA Shield Preview: Mariners take on Torch Bearers in Final

New Delhi, Oct 8: In a bid to undo the defeat of last year's IFA Shield final, East Bengal will lock horns with its arch-rival Mohun Bagan once again in a high-octane clash at the Salt Lake Stadium here on Thursday. The 2025 final ended 1-1 before Mohun Bagan won 5-4 on penalties to claim their 21st IFA Shield title.

It will be the fifth meeting between the two Kolkata Giants, with their last meeting coming less than a month ago when the two sides met during the Durand Cup. The Red and Gold Brigade on that occasion managed to thrash the Mariners 4-1, registering one of the biggest wins in recent years.

Having recently ended their eight-year drought in the Calcutta Football League, Mohun Bagan will be eager to add another piece of silverware to their collection as they seek to retain the IFA Shield, which they claimed after beating East Bengal at the same venue last year.

For East Bengal, the contest offers an opportunity to make history. The competition's most successful side with 29 titles, they will be aiming to become the first club to reach the landmark of 30 IFA Shield triumphs. Mohun Bagan, meanwhile, will be targeting a 22nd title.
Interestingly, neither side has been able to establish a clear upper hand in the derby battles this season. Their campaign began with a 1-1 draw in the Indian Super League in May, before Mohun Bagan claimed bragging rights with a narrow 1-0 win in the opening round of the Durand Cup two months later.

East Bengal, however, had the final say in the competition, producing a commanding 4-1 victory over their arch-rivals in the Durand Cup final. The teams met again in the Calcutta Football League in September, but once more had to settle for a share of the spoils after a 1-1 draw.

Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal IFA Shield Final: Schedule

When Will The East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan IFA Shield Final Be Played?

The East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan IFA Shield final will be played on Thursday, October 8.

Where Will The East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan IFA Shield Final Be Played?

The game will be played at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

What Time Will The East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan IFA Shield Final Start?

The game will begin at 6:15 pm IST.