Mohun Bagan Super Giant began their AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 campaign with a confident 2-0 win over Chennaiyin FC at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Jamie Maclaren’s brace proved the difference as the Mariners secured their first victory of the tournament.
Rain-Soaked First Half
The first half unfolded under heavy rain, which made the surface slippery and difficult to control. Despite the challenging conditions, Mohun Bagan SG managed to maintain composure at the back. Their defensive trio—Thomas Aldred, Alberto Rodríguez, and Mehtab Singh—kept things tight, while Apuia and Anirudh Thapa worked hard in midfield to create attacking opportunities.
Chennaiyin FC, fielding an all-Indian lineup, stayed compact and looked for counter-attacks. Midfielder Dinpuia impressed with his tireless work rate, helping his side push forward whenever possible. However, it was Mohun Bagan who finally broke the deadlock.
In the 38th minute, Liston Colaco displayed clever footwork to deliver a back-heeled pass to Jamie Maclaren. The Australian forward reacted swiftly, firing home from close range to give the Mariners a 1-0 lead.
Just before half-time, Chennaiyin pressed for an equaliser. Lalrinliana Hnamte tried his luck, and another free-kick in added time tested Mohun Bagan’s defence, but both attempts were cleared. The Kolkata side entered the break leading 1-0.
Faster Tempo in the Second Half
The rain eased after the interval, allowing both teams to play with greater pace and fluidity. Chennaiyin FC earned an early free-kick in the 46th minute after Alberto committed a foul and received a yellow card. But the resulting shot lacked direction.
As the game intensified, Jiteshwor Singh’s cross in the 56th minute found Irfan, whose header collided with defender Aldred, leaving both players momentarily down. Mohun Bagan soon regained control and extended their lead.
Maclaren Strikes Again
In the 67th minute, Manvir Singh sent in a precise cross from the left flank. Maclaren positioned himself perfectly inside the box and guided the ball into the net to make it 2-0. Just minutes later, Anirudh Thapa almost added a third, but his left-footed strike went narrowly wide.
With a comfortable two-goal cushion, Mohun Bagan dictated the tempo. The combination play between Manvir and Liston repeatedly tested Chennaiyin’s defence. Despite several late chances from Jason Cummings and Liston Colaco, the scoreline remained unchanged.
Mariners Stay in Control
Chennaiyin FC’s defence, led by Mohammad Nawaz’s alert goalkeeping, prevented further damage. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan’s midfield duo of Lalengmawia Ralte and Deepak Tangri efficiently broke up Chennaiyin’s attacks and maintained control in the middle of the park.
When the final whistle blew, Mohun Bagan SG sealed a well-earned 2-0 victory. The result gave them a strong start in Group A of the AIFF Super Cup.
The Mariners will next face Dempo SC on Tuesday, October 28, at 7:30 p.m. at the PJN Stadium. Chennaiyin FC will take on East Bengal earlier that day at 4:30 p.m. at the GMC Athletic Stadium.