Mohun Bagan Super Giant Dominates CISF Protectors in Durand Cup Clash

Mohun Bagan Secures Quarter-Final Spot

On Monday, Mohun Bagan Super Giant clinched the top position in Group A, advancing to the quarter-finals of the 2026 Durand Cup with an impressive 6-0 win over CISF Protectors at Kishore Bharati Krirangan. Sahal Abdul Samad was the star of the match, netting a remarkable first-half hat-trick, while Manvir Singh, Jamie Maclaren, and Tekcham Abhishek Singh also contributed to the scoreline, ensuring a flawless group-stage performance with three victories.

Having already secured six points from their first two matches, Panagiotis Dilimperis' team entered the match with their quarter-final spot confirmed. In contrast, CISF Protectors aimed to conclude their campaign on a high note following two consecutive losses.

Sahal's First-Half Brilliance

The match began with CISF's defense, led by captain Mohammad Khalid, holding firm against Mohun Bagan's relentless attacks. Subhasish Bose tested the goalkeeper with a long-range shot in the ninth minute, but the Mariners broke the deadlock in the 17th minute.

Dejan Drazic delivered a brilliant pass from his own half to Tekcham Abhishek Singh on the right. His shot deflected to Liston Colaco, who selflessly set up Sahal Abdul Samad for the opening goal.

Just two minutes later, the Mariners doubled their lead with another swift move. Manvir Singh sent a precise pass to Drazic, who squared it for Sahal to tap in his second goal.

Mohun Bagan continued to dominate, with Manvir initially shooting straight at the goalkeeper before scoring in the 24th minute. Tekcham Abhishek Singh provided a perfect cross, allowing Manvir to control and finish confidently, making it 3-0.

Sahal completed his hat-trick in spectacular fashion in the 37th minute, showcasing his skill by dribbling past defenders and slotting the ball past the goalkeeper. The Mariners went into halftime with a commanding 4-0 lead, having controlled 75% of possession.

Second Half Goals and CISF's Struggles

At halftime, Dilimperis made four substitutions, introducing Asish Rai, Alex Saji, Kiyan Nassiri Giri, and Abhishek Dhananjay Suryavanshi, resulting in an all-Indian lineup for the second half.

Mohun Bagan continued to create chances, but their finishing was initially lacking. Manvir missed a chip attempt, and Liston had a shot blocked.

The fifth goal came in the 68th minute from Sahal, who executed a brilliant no-look pass to Jamie Maclaren, allowing him to score through the goalkeeper's legs.

Five minutes later, Mohun Bagan added a sixth goal, with Liston combining with Tekcham Abhishek Singh for a precise finish into the net.

CISF nearly found a consolation goal late in the match, but Gaurab Das failed to direct a cross on target. Das also tested the Mohun Bagan goalkeeper with a powerful free-kick, while Gurpal Singh forced a late save.

Liston continued to seek a goal but was thwarted multiple times, including a shot that went over the bar.

Perfect Group Stage for Mohun Bagan

This resounding victory allows Mohun Bagan Super Giant to finish their Group A campaign with a perfect record of three wins, securing the top spot and a place in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, CISF Protectors exit the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup without earning any points.