Mohun Bagan Super Giant have displayed defensive stability, resilience, persistence, and an unwavering never-say-die attitude throughout the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023–24 season. These qualities were evident as the Mariners lifted their first League Shield and secured a spot in the ISL final with a comeback win in the semi-final.

The Mariners' captain, Subhasish Bose, has played a vital role in their resolute defensive line and has demonstrated stalwart leadership qualities. With an experienced campaigner like Bose in their ranks, their defensive performance has been among the league's best, as evidenced by their joint-highest number of clean sheets (9) this season.

Ahead of the ISL final, Bose engaged in an exclusive interview with indiansuperleague.com. During the interview, he discussed various topics including the upcoming match against Mumbai City FC, their preparation, and various other topics.

The Mariners staged a remarkable comeback in the second leg, defeating Odisha FC by a 2-0 scoreline to secure their place in the final. Despite trailing by a goal after the first leg, Habas' side remained resolute and adhered to their match plans, resulting in a victory thanks to goals from Jason Cummings and Sahal Abdul Samad.

 

Bose praised his teammates for displaying character strength and indomitable fighting spirit during crucial moments. Recalling the club's rich history, Bose remarked that making roaring comebacks and overcoming obstacles has been a legacy for Mohun Bagan SG.

Reflecting on this sentiment, Bose stated, “We made a very good comeback (against Odisha FC). Mohun Bagan SG always bounce back during difficult times. I want to thank all my players for winning this match in front of the fans at our home ground to reach the final.”

Under his leadership, Mohun Bagan SG clinched the Durand Cup earlier in the season and also registered their first-ever ISL League Shield triumph. With that, the Mariners are on the verge of completing the domestic treble if they can win the ISL Cup in the upcoming final match.

Bose revealed his boys have their eyes set on winning the ISL Cup to complete the treble. Speaking in this context, he said: “It's not that we are only motivated to win the treble. The ultimate result of the hard work we put in throughout the season is just ahead of us. We will try to win the (final) match to win the ISL Cup.”

The captain is pleased to see the do-or-die attitude of his players and has remained confident about winning the final against Mumbai City FC. Notably, Habas’ men won the League Shield, defeating the Islanders in the final league stage game a couple of weeks ago.

“We’ll try to win the final. I also said in Odisha that our team could come back. And we have done this,” he stated.

“As a captain, I feel proud of this team. Now we have one game left, and I want to win the final in front of our home crowd,” the defender added.

The ISL final will be played in Kolkata, as Mohun Bagan SG finished the league stage with more points compared to the other finalist, Mumbai City FC. Throughout the season, the Mariners have received unwavering support from their fans, who have turned out to the stadiums in huge numbers, energizing their team with their enthusiasm.

Bose opined that playing the final match in front of thousands of passionate supporters would be conducive for his players as they aim to defend the ISL Cup title.

“Obviously, it’ll be an advantage,” Bose stated.

“We will play the final at home with the support of our home crowd. We’ll give our best and try to win the game,” he signed off.

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Mohun Bagan Super Giant2023-2024 Subhasish Bose