The IFA Shield, one of the most prestigious and storied competitions in Indian football, is set to make a grand comeback in 2025 after a three-year absence. The upcoming edition, which also marks the 125th anniversary of the tournament, begins on October 8 and will conclude with the final at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata, on October 18.
A Tournament With a Glorious Legacy
Founded in 1893, the IFA Shield is the third-oldest football competition in India and has witnessed some of the most iconic moments in the country’s sporting history. Once regarded as a crown jewel of Indian football, the tournament faded into the shadows with the emergence of modern leagues. However, the current gap in top-flight league action has opened the door for its revival, and the Indian Football Association (IFA) is determined to restore its relevance.
Despite invitations being extended to defending champions Real Kashmir FC and Bhutan’s Paro FC, neither team could confirm participation. Still, the organisers have assembled an exciting line-up of six teams, representing both the Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League.
Format and Venues
The 2025 edition will feature two groups of three teams each, with only the group winners progressing directly to the final. Matches will be staged at the Kishore Bharoti Krirangan, Bankimanjali Stadium, and Kalyani Stadium, while the grand finale takes place under the lights at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium.
Group A: East Bengal Aim to Add to Their Record Tally
Group A promises to attract significant attention, with East Bengal FC placed alongside Namdhari FC and Sreenidi Deccan. The Red and Gold brigade remain the most successful team in Shield history, having lifted the trophy 29 times since their maiden triumph in 1943.
East Bengal’s recent form in knockout competitions suggests they will be among the favourites this year. They reached the Durand Cup final in 2023, won the Super Cup in 2024, and made another strong showing in 2025 by reaching the Durand Cup semifinals. Their clash against emerging I-League sides Namdhari and Sreenidi will test their consistency but also highlight the growing competitiveness of Indian club football.
Group B: Mohun Bagan’s Eyes on a Historic Return
The spotlight in Group B falls on Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who will meet Gokulam Kerala and United SC. The Mariners have enjoyed remarkable success over the past two years, collecting five major trophies, and now seek to add a sixth — and their first IFA Shield title since 2003.
Mohun Bagan are the second-most successful club in the competition with 20 trophies, and their association with the Shield carries enormous historical significance. Their legendary 1911 victory over the East Yorkshire Regiment remains a defining moment in India’s struggle for sporting and cultural identity. They also became the first club to win the Shield in independent India in 1947. Facing two-time I-League champions Gokulam Kerala and the ever-determined United SC, the Mariners will have to be at their best to reach the final.
Fixtures at a Glance
Group A
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8 Oct: East Bengal vs Namdhari 3:00 pm
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11 Oct: Namdhari vs Sreenidi Deccan 3:00 pm
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14 Oct: Sreenidi Deccan vs East Bengal 3:00 pm
Group B
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9 Oct: Mohun Bagan vs Gokulam Kerala 3:00 pm
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12 Oct: Gokulam Kerala vs United SC 3:00 pm
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15 Oct: United SC vs Mohun Bagan 3:00 pm
Final
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18 Oct: Group A Winner vs Group B Winner – Salt Lake Stadium, 7:30 PM
A Battle of Tradition and Modern Aspirations
The return of the IFA Shield in its 125th edition is more than just a football tournament — it is a celebration of Indian football’s enduring heritage. For the Kolkata giants, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, the Shield offers another opportunity to add to their legacies. For clubs like Namdhari, Sreenidi, and Gokulam Kerala, it provides a stage to challenge the old guard and carve out their own history.
As the competition unfolds, Indian football fans will be treated to a blend of tradition and modern rivalry, culminating in what promises to be a memorable final on October 18, 2025