Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters: Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated Kerala Blasters 2-0 in the ISL 2025-26 season opener. Read our full match report, tactical analysis, and player ratings from the Salt Lake Stadium clash.
By Trending News Fox Editorial Team Published: February 14, 2026 | 8:10 PM IST
Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs Kerala Blasters FC: Mariners Sink Manjappada in High-Voltage ISL 2025-26 Season Opener
The wait is finally over for Indian football fans as the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season kicked off with a heavyweight clash that lived up to its billing. In a packed Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium), defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) asserted their dominance with a convincing 2-0 victory over Kerala Blasters FC.
The season opener, held on February 14, 2026, was more than just a match; it was a statement of intent from the Mariners. With a record-breaking rivalry history and the highest stakes, this “Clash of the Titans” provided the perfect start to a truncated, high-octane league format.
Match Summary: Jamie Maclaren and Tom Aldred Secure the Three Points
From the first whistle, Mohun Bagan looked like a side that hadn’t missed a beat since their title-winning campaign. Under the guidance of head coach Sergio Lobera, the Mariners controlled the tempo, utilizing their home advantage to stretch the Kerala Blasters’ defense.
The Breakthrough: Jamie Maclaren’s Record Strike
Despite the Blasters’ disciplined defensive line, the deadlock was broken in the 36th minute. Dimitri Petratos, who remains the creative heartbeat of the Kolkata side, delivered a pinpoint cross that found Jamie Maclaren in space. The Australian marksman made no mistake, driving the ball past Kerala’s goalkeeper Sachin Suresh to make it 1-0.
This goal marked a significant milestone, as Maclaren became the first player to score in three consecutive ISL matches against Kerala Blasters.
The Finisher: Tom Aldred’s Late Header
The second half saw Kerala Blasters’ coach David Català attempt to claw back into the game, introducing fresh legs like Kevin Yoke and Marlon Roos-Trujillo. While the “Tuskers” had moments of promise—notably a missed chance by Victor Bertomeu—they struggled to test Vishal Kaith consistently.
As the match entered stoppage time, Mohun Bagan put the result beyond doubt. In the 97th minute, substitute defender Tom Aldred rose highest to meet an Anirudh Thapa free-kick, clinicaly heading it home to seal the 2-0 win.
Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters: Key Performance ISL Statistics
The statistics from the Salt Lake Stadium tell a story of total control by the defending champions.
| Metric | Mohun Bagan SG | Kerala Blasters FC |
| Score | 2 | 0 |
| Possession | 64% | 36% |
| Total Shots | 12 | 4 |
| Shots on Target | 6 | 1 |
| Pass Accuracy | 82% | 71% |
| Corners | 7 | 3 |
Tactical Analysis: Lobera vs. Català
Mohun Bagan’s Fluidity
Sergio Lobera’s tactical blueprint was evident from the start. The Mariners operated with a high defensive line and a fluid attacking trio of Maclaren, Petratos, and Liston Colaco. The inclusion of Robinho (Robson da Silva) added a layer of unpredictability, with his ability to “twist and turn” defenders creating multiple openings in the first half.
Kerala Blasters’ Resilience and Roadblocks
For David Català, the game was a lesson in fine margins. Kerala Blasters showed defensive grit for the first 30 minutes, but the loss of shape during Petratos’ assist proved fatal. The Blasters’ biggest struggle was the transition from defense to attack; with only 36% possession, they found it difficult to feed their forwards effectively.
The Historic Rivalry: Mohun Bagan Dominance Continues
The rivalry between these two clubs is one of the most storied in the ISL. Following this victory, the head-to-head record further tilts in favor of the Kolkata giants.
- Total Matches Played: 11
- Mohun Bagan Wins: 9
- Kerala Blasters Wins: 1
- Draws: 1
The Mariners have consistently been the “bogey team” for the Manjappada. Despite the incredible support Kerala receives both home and away, they have found it difficult to break the tactical discipline and financial might of the Mohun Bagan squad.
Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters: Player Ratings and Standout Performers
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
- Jamie Maclaren (8.5/10): Clinical. His movement off the ball was a nightmare for the Blasters’ center-backs.
- Dimitri Petratos (8/10): The primary architect. His vision for the opening goal was world-class.
- Tom Aldred (7.5/10): Impact sub. Not only helped keep the clean sheet but also found the back of the net.
- Anirudh Thapa (7/10): Controlled the midfield and provided the crucial assist for the second goal.
Kerala Blasters FC
- Sachin Suresh (6.5/10): Made a spectacular save against Liston Colaco’s free-kick, preventing a heavier defeat.
- Bikash Yumnam (6/10): Put in several vital blocks but was guilty of “switching off” during the final set-piece.
- Kevin Yoke (6/10): Showed sparks of creativity after coming on but lacked the final delivery.
Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters: Why This Match Matters for the 2026 Season
The ISL 2025-26 season is unique. Due to administrative delays and a reshuffled football calendar, the AIFF opted for a truncated single round-robin format. With no traditional playoff stage, every single point is magnified.
“There are no second chances this year,” noted expert analysts. “Consistency is the only path to the trophy.”
By winning the opening fixture, Mohun Bagan has already taken a massive leap toward defending their title. For Kerala Blasters, the road becomes uphill immediately, as they must find a winning rhythm in a league where one or two losses can end championship aspirations.
Fan Atmosphere: The 12th Man
The Salt Lake Stadium was a sea of Green and Maroon. Despite the Valentine’s Day kickoff, the passion for football took center stage. Over 40,000 fans created an electric atmosphere that clearly rattled the younger Kerala players in the opening stages.
While the “Manjappada” (Yellow Army) traveled in numbers, their chants were often drowned out by the thunderous “Joy Mohun Bagan” roars that erupted after Maclaren’s opener.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Mohun Bagan Super Giant will look to carry this momentum into their next fixture. With the core of their title-winning squad intact and the addition of players like Robinho, they remain the team to beat.
Kerala Blasters FC must return to the drawing board. Coach Català will likely focus on his team’s offensive output. The “Tuskers” need to find a way to integrate their new foreign signings faster if they want to stay in the hunt for the top spot.
Upcoming Fixtures:
- Mohun Bagan SG: vs. Mohammedan SC (The Mini-Kolkata Derby)
- Kerala Blasters FC: vs. Bengaluru FC (The Southern Derby)
Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters: Conclusion
The 2-0 result at the Salt Lake Stadium was a fair reflection of the gap between the two sides on the night. Mohun Bagan Super Giant proved they are still the kings of the ISL, while Kerala Blasters were reminded of the steep mountain they must climb to reach the pinnacle of Indian football.
As the 2026 season unfolds in its new, rapid-fire format, fans can expect more drama, more goals, and a title race that will likely go down to the final matchday.
For more live updates, transfer news, and ISL match reports, stay tuned to Trending News Fox.
Frequently Asked Questions: Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters
1. Who won the Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters match today?
Mohun Bagan Super Giant won the match 2-0 against Kerala Blasters FC. The game served as the season opener for the ISL 2025-26 campaign, held at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on February 14, 2026.
2. Who scored the goals for Mohun Bagan?
The goals were scored by:
- Jamie Maclaren (36th minute): A clinical strike assisted by Dimitri Petratos.
- Tom Aldred (90+7 minute): A powerful header from an Anirudh Thapa free-kick to seal the victory.
3. What is the head-to-head record between Mohun Bagan and Kerala Blasters?
Mohun Bagan has historically dominated this fixture. Following the latest result:
- Total Matches: 11
- Mohun Bagan Wins: 9
- Kerala Blasters Wins: 1
- Draws: 1
4. Why is the ISL 2025-26 season format different?
Due to an administrative reshuffle and a condensed football calendar, the AIFF opted for a truncated single round-robin format. Each of the 14 teams will play only 13 matches (no home-and-away second leg), and the team finishing at the top of the table will be crowned champions without a traditional playoff stage.
5. Who are the head coaches for both teams this season?
- Mohun Bagan SG: Led by the tactically astute Sergio Lobera.
- Kerala Blasters FC: Managed by David Català, who is looking to rebuild the squad after several key departures.
6. Where can I watch the highlights of the match?
Highlights of the MBSG vs KBFC clash are available on the Sony Sports Network, the FanCode app, and the official Indian Super League YouTube channel.
7. When is the next match for Mohun Bagan and Kerala Blasters?
- Mohun Bagan will next face Mohammedan SC in the Mini-Kolkata Derby on March 1, 2026.
- Kerala Blasters are set to take on Mumbai City FC on February 23, 2026.
Disclaimer: Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters | Trending News Fox
The content provided on Trending News Fox related to the match between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Kerala Blasters is intended solely for general information and news reporting purposes. While we strive for accuracy and timely updates, match details, results, player performances, and statistics may change as events unfold.
Trending News Fox does not guarantee the absolute accuracy of real-time sports data and is not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided. For official updates, viewers are advised to refer to league authorities or team announcements.
saibal.bose.how36@gmail.com, saibal.bose.how36@gmail.com, saibal.bose.how36@gmail.com, & saibal.bose.how36@gmail.com. (2026m, February 14). Mohun Bagan vs Kerala Blasters 2026: Mariners Win 2-0 in ISL Op. Trending News Fox. https://trendingnewsfox.com/mohun-bagan-vs-kerala-blasters-2026-mariners-win-2-0-in-isl-op/
