AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: All India Football Federation condoles the death of former International goalkeeper and Mohun Bagan legend Mr. Shibaji Banerjee.

Shibaji Banerjee, who stole the limelight for his heroics under the Mohun Bagan woodwork against the Cosmos Club, led by none other than Pele, one of the greatest players to grace the sport, donned the National jersey against Thailand in the Kings Cup on November 18, 1981.

Shibaji Banerjee represented all the three Kolkata biggies during his decorated career, albeit the long stint with Mohun Bagan had been the most successful one.

He won the Santosh Trophy thrice (1976-78) with Bengal too during his career.

He hogged the limelight for his bravado against Cosmos Club, led by Pele on September 24, 1977. The match ended in a 2-2 stalemate and Pele himself praised the Mohun Bagan goalkeeper.

Shibaji Banerjee started his career with Aryans Club and then switched to the Howrah Union in 1972.

He stood tall under the Howrah Union goal to put a halt on East Bengal's all-win record in 1972.

Next year, he signed with East Bengal before moving on to their arch-rivals Mohun Bagan in 1977 where he continued for another 8 years until hanging his boots. Meanwhile, he plied his trade for Mohammedan Sporting Club too during his career.

During his 8-year long professional career with the Green & Maroons, the suave goalkeeper won 4 Calcutta Football League, 5 Durand Cup, 5 IFA Shield, 4 Federation Cup, 2 Rovers Cup to name a few.

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

AIFF General Secretary, Mr. Kushal Das said: “He was one of the finest Indian goalkeepers to have played the game. No one could forget his plucky performance against Pele. May his soul rest in peace.”