How soon can Mohun Bagan win the I-League title?

Taking the current league scenario into account, it will not be wrong to say nobody can stop Mohun Bagan from winning their second I-League title. And the Green and Maroon Brigade could clinch the trophy much time before the league comes to an end.

Hyderabad: Mohun Bagan have possibly been observing one of their best I-league seasons of late. The Mariners are just a couple of wins away from their second I-League title victory after 2014-15 season when they won the revamped league for the first time. After their dominating 3-1 victory over Tiddim Road Athletic Union FC (TRAU FC) on Sunday (March 1), the Kolkata giant strengthened their top spot with 35 points from 14 matches. They are now 13 points ahead of second-placed Punjab FC, who accumulated 22 points from as many games. They are followed by Churchill Brothers who have 20 points from 13 games.

Now, Mohun Bagan have six matches in hand. Kibu Vicuna's men are currently enjoying a 12-match unbeaten run in the league. If they win their remaining six matches, the long-awaited trophy will definitely come at their Maidan tent, but it is not necessary for them to win all of these matches to bring the cup home. Two wins will be well enough for them to get hold of Indian football's most prestigious trophy.

Jubilant Mohun Bagan team after win against TRAU FC on March 1.

At this moment, the most important question is: How many points will ensure Mohun Bagan the I-League title?

If Churchill Brothers win all of their remaining matches, they can finish the season with a maximum 41 points. In the meantime, Punjab FC are unlikely to cross 40 points mark even if they win their remaining matches. Hence, Bagan only have to level Churchill Brothers' tally to become champions. From that point of view, they have to add six more points to their current tally of 35 to clinch the I-League title as they have a better head-to-head record against the Red Machines.

Mohun Bagan coach Kibu Vicuna.

Following their thumping victory over TRAU FC in Imphal, the Green and Maroon Brigade are set to return to their citadel at the Kalyani Municipality Stadium for their next two home games against Chennai City FC and Aizawl FC.

How soon can they make it a reality?

If Mohun Bagan maintain their winning momentum in their next two matches, they will be inched closer to the much-desired trophy as they will reach the magical figure of 41 points. That means the March 15 Kolkata derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal will have no implications on the league standings.

The scenario

In the light of East Bengal's dwindling form, it will not be a difficult task for Mohun Bagan to beat them and bag full points. The Red and Golds are virtually out of title race as they have collected 19 points from 14 matches. They can finish the season with a maximum of 37 points if they win their remaining six matches.

Mohun Bagan enjoy support of a huge fan base.

However, Mohun Bagan have to make sure that they don't get carried away with the winning momentum. It must be noted that they had let the title slip away from a good position after a narrow 1-0 loss to Aizawl FC in the 2016-17 season. So, it will be sweet revenge for Mohun Bagan if they beat the Mizoram side and lift their second I-League title in front of home fans on March 5.