The stands of Salt Lake Stadium were half-empty, and an eerie quiet permeated the air during the recent IFA Shield final. Mohun Bagan Super Giant supporters, known for their passionate displays, opted for a "sound of silence" to express their discontent.
For a large portion of the match, the Mohun Bagan faithful remained muted. There were no roars when their players were fouled, no collective backing for a team struggling in the Kolkata derby, and only brief bursts of noise when Lalengmawia Ralte equalized. The fans even removed their banners as a sign of protest. This unusual display of indifference raises questions about how a historic club like Mohun Bagan, with its legacy of overcoming colonial powers, responds to such a unique form of dissent.
As extra time approached, the atmosphere began to shift. The prospect of securing an IFA Shield title after 22 years ignited a spark in the supporters, who started chanting for Dimitri Petratos. During the penalty shootout, goalkeeper Vishal Kaith's plea for support was met with a resounding response from the crowd. It was as if the fans were willing to momentarily set aside their grievances.
After the match, coach Jose Molina revealed that some fans urged him to win the upcoming derby on October 31 in the Super Cup. Molina had previously appealed to the supporters to suspend their anger for the duration of the final.
The "sound of silence" protest highlights a growing trend of fan activism in football. Supporters are increasingly using their voices, or lack thereof, to express their concerns and demand change from their clubs. This form of protest can be a powerful tool, as it directly impacts the atmosphere and morale within the stadium. It also sends a clear message to the club's management about the fans' expectations and demands.
While the specific reasons for the Mohun Bagan supporters' protest remain unclear, it underscores the evolving dynamics between fans and clubs in modern football. It serves as a reminder that supporters are not merely passive spectators but active stakeholders who can influence the direction of their beloved teams. The incident also highlights the complex relationship between a club's history, its present performance, and the expectations of its fan base.
The "sound of silence" at the IFA Shield final may have been a temporary measure, but its impact is likely to resonate within Mohun Bagan and the broader football community. It demonstrates the power of collective action and the importance of clubs listening to the voices, even the silent ones, of their supporters.
