Mohun Bagan SG qualified for the newly-rebranded second-tier men's AFC club competition by winning the 2023-24 Indian Super League Shield.

Mohun Bagan took the lead in the fourth minute as they compounded pressure onto Indian Air Force’s defence and the men in blue gave away the ball to the Mariners.

Downtown Heroes FC, in its fourth year, brings a fresh air to the competition with its focus on nurturing young homegrown talent. Despite a relatively brief history, the club made its Durand Cup debut last season and participated in the 2022-23 I-League Division 2.

With Habas at the helm, Mohun Bagan has witnessed a remarkable turnaround, clinching four wins in their last six outings. 

The clash, scheduled for Friday, holds significant importance as both teams are tied with six points each in Group A, with an identical goal difference of +2.