Maclaren magic: Mohun Bagan lift ISL trophy after extra-time drama
Kolkata: Mohun Bagan Super Giant claimed the Indian Super League (ISL) title once again, defeating Bengaluru FC 2-1 in the final of the 2024-25 season at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium on Saturday. Jamie Maclaren’s goal in extra time sealed the victory after Jason Cummings had equalised following an own goal by Alberto Rodriguez.
The home side had the first major opportunity in the 15th minute, following a quick counterattack from a Sunil Chhetri free-kick. Manvir Singh’s cross, however, did not connect with Maclaren and rolled wide of the goal.
Bengaluru responded with a corner, with Chhetri heading on target, but Subhasish Bose made a key block. The rebound was safely collected by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. Bengaluru enjoyed more possession in the first half, but both sides went into the break without scoring.
Second half drama and a penalty equaliser
The match sprang to life in the second half. Bengaluru took the lead in the 49th minute when Ryan Williams sent a dangerous ball into the box. It took a deflection off Mohun Bagan defender Alberto Rodriguez and ended up in his own net, silencing the home crowd.
Mohun Bagan increased the pressure, with Cummings testing Bengaluru’s keeper before winning a penalty in the 71st minute. His cross struck the arm of Chinglensana Singh, prompting the referee to point to the spot. Cummings calmly converted, placing his shot into the bottom left corner, despite Gurpreet Singh Sandhu diving in the right direction.
The equaliser energised the Kolkata side. Cummings was soon replaced by Greg Stewart, and Mohun Bagan looked increasingly dangerous in attack. Bengaluru held firm to take the match into extra time.
Maclaren delivers the final blow
In the 96th minute, the story that had begun with Jamie Maclaren’s arrival in the summer reached its peak. Stewart set up the Australian striker, who struck the ball cleanly past Gurpreet—though the goalkeeper was criticised for letting it go between his legs.
Despite Bengaluru’s best efforts to respond, they were unable to match the energy of the packed Salt Lake crowd. Mohun Bagan held on and completed the league double with a memorable win.
IANS