Mohun Bagan just a win away from clinching historic I-League title

Currently, on 36 points from 15 matches, Mohun Bagan can make their final appearance in I-League memorable if they win home outing against Aizawl FC at Kalyani Stadium on Tuesday.

Kolkata: Mohun Bagan's second I-League title win is just a matter of formality. With a 13-game unbeaten record, the team now needs just two points to clinch the crown jewel that it had last won in 2015. Currently, on 36 points from 15 matches, Bagan can make their final appearance in I-League memorable if they win home outing against Aizawl FC at Kalyani Stadium on Tuesday. The win also means that Bagan become the second team in the history of the tournament after Dempo FC to wrap up the title with four rounds to spare.

I-League trophy

Mohun Bagan's path to the championship became easier on Monday after their archrivals East Bengal got the better of Real Kashmir FC with an injury-time winner in Srinagar. With most of the teams have five matches remaining in the league, Bagan's nearest challengers can just manage 38 points. Hence, a win against Aizawl FC will be enough for them to consolidate their position at the top of the league standings.

Mohun Bagan on the cusp of winning their second I-League title.

The Mariners' Spanish head coach, Kibu Vicuna, however, doesn't want to think too much about the title now. “Aizawl is playing well and is a difficult side to beat. We need to bring out our best if we want to get the result that we are looking for,” he said.

Mohun Bagan were wary in their approach in the hard-earned 1-1 draw in the last match at home against defending champions Chennai City FC. Their first meeting with Aizawl, which happened to be the first round of the season at the latter's home, ended in a goalless draw.

Mohun Bagan's away leg against Aizawl FC ended in a 1-1 draw.

In the meantime, Bagan, on Tuesday, will miss their key defender Francisco Morante owing to suspension. Despite being at ninth spot, Aizawl have played fairly well in the last five matches, securing eight points, most of which came from ‘away’ outings.

“The pressure is on them (Bagan) now as they drew their last match with Chennai City. My players are ready to take them on and are looking forward for a positive result. In football, everything is possible,” said the seasoned Aizawl FC coach, Stanley Rozario.