Coach Molina said, “We are Mohun Bagan. Our supporters always want us to win. We’ll take the field with a winning mindset, not to settle for a draw. Our main goal is to beat East Bengal and bring smiles to our fans’ faces.”

Despite criticism regarding the team’s failure in front of goal against Dempo, Molina appeared unfazed. He said,

“Every season has its tough moments. It’s hard to stay at your best without consistent matches. But the boys are working hard. As the level of competition rises, our performance will improve too.”

Captain Subhasish Bose acknowledged the significance of the derby, saying, “East Bengal are playing more competitive football now. The more derbies we play, the more opportunities we get to evaluate ourselves. For me, this match feels like the Super Cup final. We’re creating chances; we just need to be sharper with our set-pieces. The aim is to convert our chances into goals.”

Even under rainy conditions in Fatorda, Molina’s men trained with full focus. The coach emphasized, “No matter the situation, we’ll enter the pitch with the mentality to win. We’re not thinking about group positions — our only goal is to win the derby.”

However, the Spanish coach did express a hint of regret about the empty stands, saying,“It doesn’t feel right when a big match like this is played without spectators. But I know our Mohun Bagan fans will still be behind us, cheering from their homes.”

In the group stage, Mohun Bagan defeated strong teams like Gokulam Kerala FC and United Sports Club to reach the final, where they faced arch-rivals East Bengal. After a goalless draw in regulation time, the match was decided by a thrilling penalty shoot-out — and it was Mohun Bagan who had the last laugh. That victory brought the IFA Shield back to the club after nearly 22 long years, sparking joy among fans.

Now, the Mariners are determined to carry that winning momentum into the Super Cup, with eyes firmly set on the trophy. In their first match, Jason Cummings and his teammates registered a crucial victory over Clifford Miranda’s Chennaiyin FC, earning three valuable points and taking the top spot in their group.

On Tuesday evening, they face Dempo SC in their second group-stage encounter. During their recent training session in Goa, the mood in the Bagan camp appeared upbeat and confident.

However, head coach Jose Molina wasn’t entirely pleased with the training facilities. Speaking to the media, he said:

“The weather is not in our control, but the condition of the training ground is terrible. It’s hard to practice here. Still, I don’t want to make excuses — the boys will give their best.”

Indeed, concerns over the condition of the grounds and surrounding infrastructure have been a recurring issue since the start of the Super Cup. Any moment of negligence could lead to serious injuries, which has naturally frustrated players and coaches alike.

Despite the challenges and the absence of a few key stars due to injuries and rotation, the Mariners are ready for the battle against Dempo.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s Playing XI (Super Cup 2025):

Lined up and ready for #MBSGDSC at Fatorda #MBSG #JoyMohunBagan #আমরাসবুজমেরুন #AIFFSuperCup pic.twitter.com/7b8GHblOGf

— Mohun Bagan Super Giant (@mohunbagansg) October 28, 2025

In recent seasons Mohun Bagan have stamped themselves among Indian football’s elite — ISL champions, Durand Cup winners and Shield holders. But the Super Cup title still eludes them. For coach Molina, a Spaniard with significant experience, the tournament carries extra importance. In a virtual pre-match press conference he commented: “Our start to the season wasn’t ideal. Yet the IFA Shield win has boosted the squad’s confidence. We are ready for the Super Cup.”

There had been questions over fitness levels following a disappointing Durand Cup campaign. “To reach full fitness you need more matches; in Indian football those opportunities are limited. The IFA Shield’s back-to-back games have helped improve fitness. And most importantly, no one in the squad is injured now — everyone is healthy and prepared,” said Molina.

Their opponents Chennaiyin enter the match without any foreign players, but Molina refuses to underestimate them, “Chennaiyin are a good side. Every match is tough, no win comes easy. We must fight to earn it.” With that mindset, Mohun Bagan have sprung a wide-ranging surprise by naming a first eleven featuring multiple changes ahead of the Chennaiyin clash.

Mohun Bagan SG kick off their Super Cup 2025 campaign at Fatorda Stadium against Chennaiyin FC. Star forward Dimitri Petratos is omitted from the starting XI under coach José Molina’s surprise selection.

Ready to start with a bang #MBSG #JoyMohunBagan #আমরাসবুজমেরুন #AIFFSuperCup #MBSGCFC pic.twitter.com/h8n3lVKCHK

— Mohun Bagan Super Giant (@mohunbagansg) October 25, 2025

Mohun Bagan SG

Mohun Bagan SG, Super Cup 2025, Chennaiyin FC, Indian football, José Molina, Dimitri Petratos, Jason Cummings, Robson Robinho, Fatorda Stadium