Mohun Bagan SG ride Petratos goal, defend ISL title

Time seemed nearly frozen as Manvir Singh passed the ball to Dimitri Petratos. Four minutes into an incredibly lengthy stoppage time of nine minutes, this was likely the final opportunity for Mohun Bagan Super Giant to secure victory in this year’s Indian Super League on their home turf. Lacking a clear view of the target, Petratos nevertheless pivoted and fired the shot, seeing it then slip past Odisha FC’s disorganized defense and the goalkeeper to hit the side netting.

With it, Mohun Bagan became the inaugural team in ISL history to retain the title, while also securing a spot in the AFC Champions League 2, the second-tier club tournament in the continent. With two games remaining, Mohun Bagan has accumulated 52 points from 22 matches, increasing their lead over second-placed FC Goa, who have 42 points from 21 games. Last season, Mohun Bagan secured the ISL title with a total of 50 points.

It might realistically have been 51 after 22 matches, considering how Odisha FC displayed resilience by preventing Bagan from scoring the winning goal for 93 minutes. The deadlock appeared to be resolved in the 85th minute when Mourtada Fall fouled Jamie MacLaren near the edge of the box, leading to fervent calls for a penalty. However, the hosts only received a free-kick after Fall was sent off. Four minutes prior, MacLaren was expertly assisted by Petratos but couldn’t convert it.

The period before and after half-time featured some disorganized football from both teams, although Odisha did attempt to create some opportunities, especially in the 65th minute when Hugo Boumous was permitted to make a strong run and shoot at goal, only for Vishal Kaith to execute an impressive diving save.

Prior to that, MacLaren was consistently threatening the Odisha FC goal, putting their defense to the test multiple times. However, he was consistently thwarted by goalkeeper Amrinder Singh or by awkward tackles. Petratos entered the game in the 78th minute, replacing Tom Aldred, as part of a double substitution to add more speed to Bagan’s final push. It was a gamble that ultimately succeeded, though not without some last-minute anguish.