Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG), the reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions and 17-time Durand Cup winners, face off against city rivals Mohammedan Sporting Club (MSC) in their opening Group B fixture of the Durand Cup 2025.
This match, dubbed the "mini Kolkata Derby," marks the start of Mohun Bagan’s campaign to secure an unprecedented 18th Durand Cup title, while Mohammedan aims to rebound from a recent loss and make a statement in Asia’s oldest football tournament.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant enter the match as favorites, boasting a formidable record with 17 Durand Cup titles and a dominant ISL campaign last season, where they secured both the Shield and Cup. After initially considering withdrawal, the Mariners are eager to start their 2025/26 season on a high note. They are coming off a runner-up finish in the 2024 Durand Cup, losing to NorthEast United FC in a dramatic penalty shootout in the final. Coach Jose Molina is likely to rely on a strong domestic core, potentially resting foreign players during the group stages, to assert dominance early. However, the absence of key players like Manvir Singh, who is dealing with a fitness issue, and Subhasish Bose, who is not fully fit, could influence their strategy.
Mohammedan Sporting, on the other hand, are under pressure after a 2-1 loss to Diamond Harbour FC in their opening Group B match on July 28, 2025, where Luka Majcen’s stoppage-time goal sealed their defeat. The Black Panthers, who won the I-League in 2023/24 but struggled in their debut ISL season, are grappling with a FIFA transfer ban due to financial issues, limiting their squad depth. Despite this, young talents like Thokchom Adison Singh, who scored in their opener, provide hope. Coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo will aim for a disciplined defensive setup to frustrate Mohun Bagan and capitalize on counter-attacks. A loss here could jeopardize their chances of advancing, making this a must-win encounter.
Historically, Mohun Bagan hold a significant edge in head-to-head encounters, with 122 wins compared to Mohammedan’s 44 and 84 draws. This will be their 13th Durand Cup meeting, adding to the fixture’s storied rivalry. A victory for Mohun Bagan could set the tone for their Group B campaign, while Mohammedan will look to pull off an upset to revive their tournament hopes.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant 3-1 Mohammedan Sporting Club
The Mohun Bagan vs Mohammedan Durand Cup 2025 match will be telecast on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten 2 HD in India from 7 pm IST. The match can also be live-streamed on the Sony LIV app and website.