Mohun Bagan Super Giant continued its flawless start to the Indian Super League 2025-26 season with a commanding 2-0 win over Chennaiyin FC at the Salt Lake Stadium on Monday.
The Mariners made it two victories from two matches, showing control and composure throughout the contest. Australian striker Jamie Maclaren broke the deadlock late in the first half, while compatriot Dimitri Petratos sealed the result midway through the second period.
Mohun Bagan gradually asserted itself by stretching play down the wings. Liston Colaco and Brazilian Robson Robinho were key outlets, repeatedly delivering dangerous crosses into the Chennaiyin penalty area. Despite the sustained pressure, the visitors’ defence stood firm for much of the opening half, frustrating clear attempts from both Maclaren and Petratos.
Chennaiyin’s plans were disrupted around the half-hour mark when first-choice goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz was forced off following a goalmouth collision. Substitute keeper Samik Mitra stepped in and was quickly called into action.
The breakthrough arrived just before the interval. Anirudh Thapa produced a perfectly weighted through ball that split the Chennaiyin backline and released Maclaren. The striker kept his composure and calmly slotted the ball past Mitra to hand the hosts a deserved lead.
After the restart, Mohun Bagan pushed forward with intent, determined to put the game beyond doubt. The decisive second goal came in the 65th minute. Left-back Subhasish Bose delivered a pinpoint cross to the far post, where Petratos connected with a powerful volley. Mitra managed to get a hand to the effort but could not stop it from crossing the line.
With a two-goal cushion, the Mariners appeared in complete control. However, a touch of complacency crept into their play as finishing became less clinical. Petratos nearly grabbed his second in the 70th minute but failed to keep his volley on target.
Late on, substitutes combined in a promising move when Amay Ranawade cut the ball back for Manvir Singh. The forward controlled neatly but fired into the side-netting in the 82nd minute.
The result lifts Mohun Bagan to six points from two matches, reinforcing early title ambitions. For Chennaiyin and coach Clifford Miranda, a second straight defeat leaves questions to answer as they look to steady their campaign.
