Three unsung heroes of Mohun Bagan's 2024-25 ISL league shield championship win

Mohun Bagan became the only team to be crowned back-to-back ISL shield winners.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Mohun Bagan Super Giant clinched the 2024-25 league shield championship in style at the weekend. A dramatic 1-0 win over Odisha FC, fueled by Dimitri Petratos’ stoppage-time winner, helped the Mariners retain their ISL shield championship title.

The Kolkata giants have set a flurry of ISL records by becoming the first team to win back-to-back ISL shield titles. Head coach Jose Molina guided them in dominating their way to the title and validating his appointment last summer. Several Mohun Bagan players also earn special praise for their vital contribution to their success.

Vishal Kaith is deservedly earning calls from fans to be India’s new No. 1 after keeping 14 clean sheets in 22 games. Jamie Maclaren has also earned cult status among the Mariners’ fanbase for his crucial goals in big games this season. Dimitri Petratos and Jason Cummings remain major fan favourites with their key goal contributions. Even Manvir Singh and Liston Colaco have attracted the love of fans with their impressive work in the games, especially on the wings.

However, some Mohun Bagan players deserve more appreciation than they’ve gotten. These players have done their jobs perfectly and often acted in shadow roles to help those around them excel.

Here, we look at the three unsung heroes of Mohun Bagan’s ISL league shield championship win.

3. Asish Rai

Asish Rai struggled to settle himself as a regular starter for Mohun Bagan last season, but that changed with Jose Molina’s arrival. The 26-year-old played his best role for the Mariners under the Spaniard’s system as a proactive right-back.

What has helped Rai excel in the 2024-25 season for Mohun Bagan is that he’s been asked to look into the defensive responsibilities rather than get into attacking areas all the time. He’s been a superb performer despite not being able to show off that much or getting that much of a spotlight.

In his 19 games this season, Rai has also bagged three assists, which included a superb pass for Jamie Maclaren’s winning goal in the 1-0 win in the Kolkata Derby over East Bengal FC. The 26-year-old has averaged over four duels won and over four possession recoveries per game to help his side keep seven clean sheets in his appearances. His impressive form this season could even get him game-time for the India national team.

2. Alberto Rodriguez

Alberto Rodriguez’s arrival at Mohun Bagan raised some eyebrows because the fans were unfamiliar with his quality. The Spaniard had a shaky start, with his lack of fitness straining him in the first few matches.

Once he gained full match sharpness, however, Alberto performed optimally whenever coach Molina played him. The physical centre-back has dominated and bullied many forwards in the ISL, using his strength and in-game IQ to frustrate most of his opponents.

He’s been the marshal in Mohun Bagan’s backline, commanding their sturdy defensive shape and helping Subhasish Bose with his defensive duties. Rodriguez has won 59 duels, made 73 possession recoveries and 86 clearances in 18 games, helping his side keep 12 of the 14 clean sheets!

The 32-year-old is not only an indomitable defender but plays a key role in Mohun Bagan’s build-up play with his excellent forward passes and scored five vital goals. Rodriguez has played a massive role in helping the Mariners clinch the ISL shield and prove that a sturdy defence does win championships.

ALSO READ: ISL 2024-25: Updated Points Table, most goals, and most assists after match 140, Punjab FC vs FC Goa

1. Lalengmawia Ralte

Mohun Bagan made a significant statement by roping in Lalengmawia Ralte from Mumbai City FC last summer. With some claiming him to be overpaid, the India international just stuck to his strengths and has proven to be an inspired signing for the Kolkata side.

He’s been a consistent figure in their starting XI, featuring in 19 matches this season. Apuia has not scored or assisted for the Mariners so far, but his clever work in midfield has helped them control games with authority. The 24-year-old has averaged 47 passes per game with an accuracy of 83, helping move the ball forward smoothly.

He’s also been an ever-present figure in winning back possession or helping his side defensively, making 45 tackles, 30 interceptions and winning 97 duels and 118 possession recoveries in 19 games.

Apuia might not get that much fanfare as he rarely creates big scoring chances or because he can’t score goals, but he’s been an inspiring figure in helping the Mariners dominate so many teams in the ISL.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.