{"id":2248,"date":"2025-10-06T11:21:08","date_gmt":"2025-10-06T05:51:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/football-tribe.com\/india\/?p=2248"},"modified":"2025-10-06T11:50:35","modified_gmt":"2025-10-06T06:20:35","slug":"ifa-shield-2025-the-historic-tournament-returns-for-its-125th-edition","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/football-tribe.com\/india\/2025\/10\/06\/ifa-shield-2025-the-historic-tournament-returns-for-its-125th-edition\/","title":{"rendered":"IFA Shield 2025: The Historic Tournament Returns for its 125th Edition"},"content":{"rendered":"

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<\/strong> and will conclude with the final at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata, on October 18<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

A Tournament With a Glorious Legacy<\/h3>\n

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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Despite invitations being extended to defending champions Real Kashmir FC<\/strong> and Bhutan\u2019s Paro FC<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

Format and Venues<\/h3>\n

The 2025 edition will feature two groups of three teams each<\/strong>, with only the group winners progressing directly to the final. Matches will be staged at the Kishore Bharoti Krirangan, Bankimanjali Stadium, and Kalyani Stadium<\/strong>, while the grand finale takes place under the lights at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium.<\/p>\n

Group A: East Bengal Aim to Add to Their Record Tally<\/h3>\n

Group A promises to attract significant attention, with East Bengal FC<\/strong> placed alongside Namdhari FC<\/strong> and Sreenidi Deccan<\/strong>. The Red and Gold brigade remain the most successful team in Shield history, having lifted the trophy 29 times<\/strong> since their maiden triumph in 1943.<\/p>\n

East Bengal\u2019s recent form in knockout competitions suggests they will be among the favourites this year. They reached the Durand Cup final in 2023<\/strong>, won the Super Cup in 2024<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

Group B: Mohun Bagan\u2019s Eyes on a Historic Return<\/h3>\n

The spotlight in Group B falls on Mohun Bagan Super Giant<\/strong>, who will meet Gokulam Kerala<\/strong> and United SC<\/strong>. The Mariners have enjoyed remarkable success over the past two years, collecting five major trophies, and now seek to add a sixth \u2014 and their first IFA Shield title since 2003<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Mohun Bagan are the second-most successful club in the competition with 20 trophies<\/strong>, 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Fixtures at a Glance<\/h3>\n

Group A<\/strong><\/p>\n