Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions, are ready to test their mettle on the continental stage as they kick off their AFC Champions League Two campaign against Tajikistan on Wednesday. After finishing as runners-up in the Durand Cup and starting their ISL season with a draw against Mumbai City FC, the Mariners are eager to find their winning form and begin their Champions League journey on a high note.
The Kolkata-based club has a rich history in continental football, having played over 100 matches at the Asian level. Their first foray into Asian competition came in 1987 at the Asian Club Championship, where club legend Sisir Ghosh etched his name in the record books as the team’s highest scorer with six goals. However, Mohun Bagan’s record in Asian competitions has been marked by a mixed bag of results, with the team advancing beyond the group stage on only five out of their 14 appearances.
Their last successful group stage campaign came in 2022 under the guidance of head coach Juan Ferrando. Since then, the club has seen a change in leadership with Ferrando and Antonio Lopez Habas, both of whom have left their mark on Mohun Bagan’s history, stepping down. The reins are now held by Jose Molina, who previously helped Atletico de Kolkata lift the ISL title. With Molina at the helm, Mohun Bagan will be aiming to improve their performance in the AFC Champions League and make a deeper run in the competition this time around.
The team’s recent signing of former Portugal youth international Nuno Reis adds depth and experience to the backline, providing further impetus to their continental ambitions. As the Mariners prepare to face Tajikistan, they will be looking to build on their rich legacy and etch their name in the annals of Asian football once again.
