The Indian football community is in mourning following the passing of former national team defender and East Bengal legend Ilyas Pasha. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed on Thursday that Pasha breathed his last after a prolonged illness, leaving behind his wife, two daughters, and two sons. He was 61 years old.
A Stellar Football Journey Begins
Ilyas Pasha's remarkable football journey commenced with his professional debut at Vinayaka Football Club in Bengaluru. As a right-wing back, he quickly carved a niche for himself in Indian football, earning a move to Indian Telephone Industries in the mid-1980s due to his consistent performances. It was during this period that Pasha made his international debut for India in 1987, marking the start of a distinguished career on the global stage.
International and Domestic Contributions
Pasha represented India in eight international matches, showcasing his skills in prestigious tournaments such as the Nehru Cup in 1987 and 1991, the SAF Games in 1991, and the 1992 Asian Cup qualifiers. On the domestic front, he became a regular for Karnataka in the Santosh Trophy from 1986 onwards, representing his state in Kolkata (1987), Quilon (now Kollam, 1988), and Guwahati (1989). Later, he switched states and achieved significant success, winning two Santosh Trophy titles with Bengal in 1993 and 1995.
Iconic Stint with East Bengal
Following impressive performances in the Santosh Trophy, Mohammedan Sporting Club signed Pasha, where he won the Sait Nagjee Trophy and the Nizam Gold Cup in 1989, further enhancing his reputation. His success led to a move to East Bengal, ushering in a new era for the club. Under the guidance of late coach Subhash Bhowmick, Pasha became one of the most trusted footballers and even captained East Bengal during the 1993-94 season.
A Trophy-Laden Legacy
With East Bengal, Ilyas Pasha amassed an impressive collection of trophies, solidifying his status as a club legend. His accolades include multiple victories in the Calcutta Football League (1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998), IFA Shield (1990, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1997), Durand Cup (1990, 1991, 1993, 1995), Rovers Cups (1990, 1994), Federation Cup (1996), Wai Wai Cup in Kathmandu (1993), Airlines Trophy (1990, 1992, 1995, 1997), Bordoloi Trophy (1992), ATPA Shield (1992), Kalinga Cup (1993), McDowell Trophy (1995, 1997), and the Super Cup in the 1996-97 season.
Notably, Pasha was part of the East Bengal side that secured a treble in 1990 and captained the team to their first international title at the Wai Wai Cup in 1993. He also led East Bengal to a sensational 6-2 victory over Iraq's Al Zawraa SC in the 1993-94 Asian Cup Winners' Cup. In recognition of his immense contributions, East Bengal honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012.
AIFF Pays Tribute
The All India Football Federation expressed deep condolences over Pasha's demise. In a statement, the AIFF said, "The All India Football Federation condoles the death of former India defender Ilyas Pasha, who passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, after a prolonged illness." The federation highlighted his glittering decade-long career at East Bengal, where he served as a defensive mainstay, captained the side, and played a central role in one of the most successful eras in the club's history, winning multiple domestic and international trophies.
Ilyas Pasha's legacy as a dedicated footballer and a true icon of Indian sports will continue to inspire future generations, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and the football community alike.
