Mohun Bagan SG clinched their first-ever League Shield in the Indian Super League (ISL) following their thrilling 2-1 victory against Mumbai City FC in Kolkata on Monday.

Liston Colaco and Jason Cummings each found the net in both halves, propelling the Mariners to a nervy 2-1 victory over Petr Kratky’s team and clinching the league championship, a feat narrowly missed in the 2020–21 and 2021–22 seasons.

Also Read - Mohun Bagan SG are ISL champions: The glory, the records and the heroes

Antonio Habas’ team approached the crucial fixture knowing only a win would secure the Shield in their final match of the season, while any other result would have handed Mumbai City FC their second consecutive Shield. 

From the onset, the Mariners displayed relentless attacking prowess, particularly through the flanks, leading to the opening goal. In the second half, their unwavering determination and resilience thwarted Mumbai City FC's attack, sealing a crucial victory. 

After the match, Mohun Bagan SG’s speedy winger Colaco caught up with the indiansuperleague.com, where he shared his unparalleled exhilaration after winning the League Shield and and discussed his performance, as well as the team's aspirations heading into the playoffs.

“Want to dedicate my goal to all my teammates”

 

Colaco, one of the exciting Indian players within Mohun Bagan SG's ranks, showcased his brilliance with a breathtaking goal, leaving defender Mehtab Singh bewildered before unleashing a curling right-footed strike that left Mumbai City FC goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa with no chance. 

Renowned for his electrifying pace and exquisite footwork, the 25-year-old forward from Goa wreaked havoc on the opposition defence with his direct runs and relentless speed down the left flank, posing a constant threat throughout the match.

After a high-octane clash, an overwhelmed Colaco said, “I am really happy for my team; we have won the ISL League Shield. I want to dedicate my goal to all my teammates.”

The Mariners have gone through difficult junctures throughout the ISL 2023–24 season, but their indomitable fighting spirit and collective team effort propelled them to edge past numerous obstacles.

Their quest for the Shield encountered a setback with a home defeat to Chennaiyin FC. However, undeterred by this setback, the Mariners rallied and secured victories in their remaining three league fixtures, culminating in them topping the table at the conclusion of the league stage.

Sharing insights on their journey over the last couple of months, Colaco asserted, “For the past seven months, we have trained for the Shield. I think we have achieved our target. We are very happy.”

“We need to enjoy this moment and then focus on the playoffs,” he commented.

“This is my best goal”

 

Since joining the Mariners in 2021, Colaco has left a significant mark, tallying 13 goals and 13 assists in the ISL. In the ongoing season, he has featured in 13 matches, netting four goals and contributing four assists. Colaco ranked his goal against Mumbai City FC as his best goal in the league so far, attributing its importance to their League Shield triumph.

“I have scored quite good goals, but this is the best goal (for me) as it helped us win something important,” he opined.

Related tags:

Mohun Bagan Super GiantMumbai City FC2023-2024 Liston Colaco