AIFF Super Cup 2025-26: Mohun Bagan registers 2-0 win against Chennaiyin FC to top table

Jamie Maclaren scored a brace as Mohun Bagan beat Super Giant Chennaiyin FC 2-0 in the Group A match in the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 at the PJN Stadium here on Saturday.

The first half of the match turned into a slippery challenge as the rain gods decided to be merciless and tested the balance and control of both sides.

Yet Bagan comfortably held the defensive line through Thomas Aldred, Alberto Rodríguez and Mehtab Singh, while Lalengmawia (Apuia) Ralte and Anirudh Thapa pulled the strings in midfield, trying to stretch Chennaiyin’s defenders.

Laldinpuia and Jiteshwor Singh combined for Chennaiyin’s first chance of the match when Alberto’s failed clearance was sent in by Laldinpuia. Jiteshwor grabbed the ball, shot at goal and forced Vishal Kaith into an excellent save.

Seconds later, Bagan were on the hunt: Colaco’s backheel on the underlap was met by Maclaren, who found the bottom corner in the 38th minute.

Chennaiyin pushed for an equalizer late in the first half, but Lalrinliana Hnamte’s effort and a free-kick in extra time were both allowed.

The rain subsided in the second half, allowing both teams to play at a faster pace. The Marina Machans earned an early free-kick in the 46th minute after Alberto interfered with a Chennaiyin point and drew a yellow card, but the effort lacked precision.

Bagan doubled the lead through Maclaren in the 67th minute when Manvir’s cross from the left found the Australian from close range and brought the ball home. Three minutes later, Thapa almost made it three, but his left-footed shot went just wide.

With the two-goal cushion, the Mariners tightened their grip on the game and created a series of chances through exchanges between Manvir and Liston, but Chennaiyin’s defence, led by former Bagan captain Pritam Kotal, ensured no further bleeding ensued.

The win took Bagan to the top of the table, with East Bengal and Dempo SC drawing 2-2 in the other Group A match. The Mariners will now face Dempo in their next match at the PJN Stadium on October 28. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin travels to Bambolim for the match against East Bengal.

Published on October 25, 2025