Kolkata, Feb 14 (NationPress) The reigning champions, Mohun Bagan Super, began their campaign in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 with a convincing 2-0 win against Kerala Blasters FC during the season opener held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharathi Krirangan (VYBK) in Kolkata on Saturday.

With a goal from Jamie Maclaren in the first half (36’) and another from Tom Aldred in injury time (90+6’), the Mariners secured a solid three points.

Sergio Lobera, the head coach of Mohun Bagan SG, fielded a robust lineup featuring familiar names such as Dimi Petratos, Jamie Maclaren, and Alberto Rodriguez, marking his first match in charge. New arrivals like Mehtab Singh, Robson Da Silva, and Amey Ranawade were also included in the match day squad.

In contrast, David Català opted for a youthful team in his debut ISL match, with foreign signings Oumar Ba and Victor Bertomeu making their first appearances alongside midfielders Yebindas and Rowllin Borges.

The defending champions dominated possession in the first half, with Anirudh Thapa and Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia) orchestrating the midfield, allowing Robson and Liston Colaco to exploit space on the flanks. Dimi Petratos returned to his preferred No. 10 position behind Jamie Maclaren, who nearly opened the scoring early on. Liston Colaco set up Petratos in the box, but the shot went wide.

Despite controlling the game, the Mariners struggled to breach the resilient defense of Kerala Blasters until they finally took the lead post-water break through Jamie Maclaren. He received the ball inside the box from Petratos, skillfully maneuvered past Aiban Dohling, and scored with a composed left-footed finish, marking the first goal of the ISL season. By the end of the first half, Mohun Bagan held a one-goal advantage, having registered ten shots with six on target.

Català made two substitutions at the start of the second half, introducing Naocha Singh and Marlon Trujillo, while Subhasish Bose made way for Amey Ranawade in the Mohun Bagan lineup. The second half saw the Mariners maintaining comfortable possession, forcing the Blasters to defend deep.

In the final moments of the match, Kerala Blasters grew stronger, particularly with the entry of Kevin Yoke, who showcased his speed and dribbling skills on the wings. However, the Blasters failed to generate any clear chances to challenge Vishal Kaith in goal. The game was sealed in injury time when substitute Tom Aldred netted a powerful header from a free-kick taken by Anirudh Thapa.