AIFF condoles death of Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Shibaji

The All India Football Federation on Monday condoled the death of former international goalkeeper and Mohun Bagan legend Shibaji Banerjee, who died on Sunday night in Kolkata following a massive heart attack. He was 68.

Shibaji was part of Mohun Bagan's three-man technical committee at the time of passing away.

A Bagan legend, Shibaji won 34 trophies with the club, also having the distinction of not conceding a goal against traditional city rivals East Bengal from 1977 to 1981.

He gained great popularity among the legion of football fans in Kolkata for his acrobatic saves, particularly during spot kicks.

AIFF President Praful Patel said, "It is sad to hear that we lost Shibaji Banerjee untimely due to a sudden heart-attack. He was one of the greatest goalkeepers, especially during the spot-kicks. May his soul rest in peace."

Shibaji, who stole the limelight for his heroics under the Mohun Bagan woodwork against the Cosmos Club, led by none other than Pele, donned the national jersey against Thailand in the Kings Cup on November 18, 1981.

AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das said: "He was one of the finest Indian goalkeepers to have played the game. Neither of us could forget his plucky performance against Pele. May his soul rest in peace."

--IANS

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