Mohun Bagan vs United SC, IFA Shield 2025, AS IT HAPPENED: Mohun Bagan booked their place in the IFA Shield final with a 2-0 win over United SC at Kishore Bharati Stadium. Dimitrios Petratos opened the scoring
before half-time, tapping in after his free-kick was initially saved by Subrata.
The Mariners controlled possession and created several chances, while United SC threatened on the counter but couldn't find the net. An own-goal off Ankan in the second half doubled Bagan's lead, and the team managed the game well to see out the victory. Mohun Bagan will now face East Bengal in the final at Yuva Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) on October 18.
Mohun Bagan head into the contest with confidence but also with a few injury headaches. Star forward Manvir Singh remains doubtful after skipping Monday's training session, while Anirudh Thapa will undergo a late fitness test before the game. Both Subhasish Bose and Apuia are away on national duty, further complicating Molina's selection plans.
If Thapa fails to recover in time, Glenn Martins is expected to partner Abhishek Suryavanshi in central midfield. In attack, Jamie Maclaren will lead the line with Jason Cummings operating just behind him. Robson Robin and Kiyan Nassiri will likely take up roles on the flanks, while Vishal Kaith continues in goal. The defence is expected to feature Alberto RodrÍguez, Mehtab Singh, Asish Rai, and Abhishek Singh. With Deepak Tangri and Sahal Abdul Samad also on national duty, Molina may have to rely on his bench depth, with Dimitri Petratos and returning U-23 players Suhail Bhat and Dipendu Biswas likely to provide options.
On the other hand, United SC have emerged as one of the surprise packages of this year's tournament. After a strong opening win against Gokulam Kerala, coach Lalkamal Bhowmick's side will be eyeing another upset. United have registered three foreign players for the Shield, two of whom are expected to start. However, they will be without key duo Dipesh Murmu and goalkeeper Suraj Ali, both ruled out of the tie.
While Mohun Bagan boast superior depth and experience, United's spirited display in their previous outing makes them a dangerous opponent. A victory for United would propel them into the final, while a draw or win for Bagan would confirm a much-anticipated Kolkata Derby final against East Bengal.
With both teams having everything to play for, Wednesday's fixture promises to be an intense battle - one that could decide not just the finalists, but also set the tone for another memorable chapter in Kolkata football.
