In a significant blow to their title aspirations, league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant were held to a disappointing 0-0 draw by 10th-placed Chennaiyin FC in matchweek 18 of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season. The stalemate sees Bagan’s lead at the summit cut to just seven points, with the chasing pack having games in hand to potentially close the gap further.
Bagan’s Insipid Display
In a match that promised much but delivered little, Mohun Bagan put in an uncharacteristically subdued performance. The usually free-flowing attack of the Mariners was stifled by a resolute Chennaiyin defense, with the game seeing a paltry three shots on target between the two sides.
Bagan, who have been in scintillating form this season, looked a shadow of their usual selves. The link-up play between their forward line was disjointed, while the midfield struggled to assert any control over proceedings. It was a far cry from the dominant displays that have seen them storm to the top of the table.
Chennaiyin’s Missed Opportunities
While Mohun Bagan were below par, credit must go to Chennaiyin for a disciplined and organized display. The Marina Machans came into this game with a clear game plan to frustrate their illustrious opponents, and they executed it to perfection.
However, Chennaiyin will rue the fact that they couldn’t capitalize on a rare off-day for the league leaders. Wilmar Jordan Gil came closest to breaking the deadlock when his effort cannoned off the woodwork, while skipper Ryan Edwards spurned a golden opportunity late on, heading wide from point-blank range.
We had our chances to win it, especially Ryan’s header at the end. But a point against the leaders is still a good result for us.
– Thomas Brdarić, Chennaiyin FC Head Coach
Implications for the Title Race
While Mohun Bagan will be disappointed with the result, they still hold a healthy seven-point lead at the top of the ISL table. However, with the likes of Mumbai City FC and Hyderabad FC having games in hand, the Mariners can ill-afford any more slip-ups.
- Mohun Bagan lead cut to 7 points
- Mumbai City FC and Hyderabad FC have games in hand
For Chennaiyin, this result keeps their slim playoff hopes alive. They sit 10th, six points off the final playoff spot, but with the teams above them having played fewer games, a late charge into the top six looks unlikely at this stage.
Looking Ahead
Mohun Bagan will look to get back to winning ways quickly and reassert their authority on the title race. They face a tricky test next time out against a resurgent Bengaluru FC side that have hit form at the right time.
Chennaiyin, meanwhile, have a mountain to climb if they are to make a late push for the playoffs. They face fellow strugglers NorthEast United in their next fixture in what is surely a must-win game for both sides.
As the ISL 2024-25 season enters its final stretch, the title race looks set to go down to the wire. Mohun Bagan remain in pole position, but this stumble against Chennaiyin will give hope to the chasing pack. It promises to be a grandstand finish to what has been a thrilling campaign.
