Mohammedan Sporting Club became the second Indian club to earn promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL) after winning the I-League 2023-24 championship. Their inclusion as the third Kolkata-based team added excitement to the league.

However, their debut season proved to be a tough one, as they finished at the bottom of the table. The team showed signs of improvement around the new year, going unbeaten in four games and securing one win. But their momentum was derailed by five consecutive defeats, during which head coach Andrey Chernyshov also parted ways with the club.

Also Read: Hyderabad FC Season Review

With interim head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo stepping in, the remainder of the season was marked by struggles, leaving both fans and management searching for answers until the very end.

Record

Pl: 24; W: 2; L: 15; D: 7; Pts: 13; GF: 12; GA: 43

Positives

Despite numerous challenges, there were a few silver linings in an otherwise dreary season. Notably, Mohammedan SC recorded the seventh-most clean sheets (five) in the league. One of their standout victories came against Bengaluru FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, where the underdogs secured a surprising win along with a clean sheet, highlighting their potential to compete against the best of teams.

Negatives

One of the most glaring issues for Mohammedan SC this season was their lack of attacking firepower. They finished with the lowest goal tally in the league, as their forwards struggled to convert chances, making scoring a rare occurrence. This offensive inefficiency proved costly, leaving the team battling through each Matchweek and often disheartening fans. Their inability to find the back of the net not only hurt morale but also put immense pressure on a defense that was already underperforming.

Defensively, Mohammedan SC endured a difficult campaign, finishing with the second-worst defensive record in the league. While a handful of clean sheets offered brief moments of hope, their backline was vulnerable far too often. As the season progressed, aspirations faded quickly, with opponents regularly exposing their defensive frailties.

At home, their struggles were even more pronounced. Mohammedan SC ended the season with the worst home record in the league, failing to register a single victory in front of their own fans. The lack of home advantage was demoralizing, not just for the players but also for the loyal supporters who turned up hoping for a turnaround.

Their away form provided little respite, as they managed only a couple of wins and finished with the joint-lowest number of away victories. Their inability to perform on the road further compounded their struggles, leaving them chasing points in an increasingly competitive league.

Best player: Mirjalol Kasimov

Mohammedan SC midfielder Mirjalol Kasimov was a key figure for the club throughout the season. Operating as a box-to-box midfielder, he showcased his versatility in both defensive and attacking roles, adding stability to the team. Over the course of the season, he logged 1555 minutes of playing time and contributed two goals. Kasimov also led the squad in tackles, recording more than any other player in the team.

Best young player: Lalremsanga Fanai

Winger Fanai played a crucial role for Mohammedan SC, contributing two goals to their campaign. His pace and direct runs were key to their attacking play, and despite some struggles when it came to converting chances, he showed flashes of brilliance. Notably, it was his goal that secured Mohammedan SC’s first-ever ISL victory against Chennaiyin FC. The Mizoram-born winger also put in a shift defensively, tracking back to support the backline and adding an extra layer of resilience.

What do they need next season?

Mohammedan SC must reassess their strategy and rebuild a squad capable of competing at the highest level. Their debut ISL season was always going to be a challenge, but with many of their Indian and foreign players now have a taste of the league and continuity will be key.

Addressing their attacking struggles should be a top priority, as they recorded the lowest goal tally in the ISL. While the team managed to create chances regularly, reinforcements will be essential to enhance their finishing and overall offensive output. Defensively, Mohammedan SC conceded the second-most goals in the league, behind only Hyderabad FC. Strengthening the backline by introducing more competition for places will be crucial in shoring up their defense.