The stage is set for a riveting encounter as the historic rivalry between Mohun Bagan Supergiant and East Bengal is reignited in the Kalinga stadium, Bhubaneshwar, during the 2024 Super Cup. Both teams, having maintained unbeaten runs in the tournament thus far, are not only eyeing the Super Cup title but also relishing the prospect of securing bragging rights in the Kolkata derby.
Recent Encounters: The last clash between these arch-rivals occurred in the Calcutta Football League on November 30, 2023, where East Bengal emerged victorious with a convincing 3-0 scoreline. However, it’s crucial to note that the November fixture featured second-string sides. For a more accurate representation of their strengths, the Durand Cup final on September 30, which saw Mohun Bagan triumph 1-0, becomes the focal point.
Current Form and Standings: As both teams have showcased unbeaten runs in the 2024 Super Cup, their clash promises an intense battle on January 19. In terms of league standings, Mohun Bagan currently occupies the 5th position, while East Bengal is positioned at 8th in the Indian Super League (ISL). Despite their ISL standings, the unpredictability of the Super Cup, as demonstrated by Jamshedpur FC’s success, adds an element of suspense to the upcoming Kolkata Derby.
AFC Asian Cup Impact: The ongoing AFC Asian Cup has affected ISL teams, particularly Mohun Bagan, with seven of their players representing the Indian squad. Notably, wingers Sahal Abdul Samad and Anirudh Thapa have been pivotal to Mohun Bagan’s success this season. Despite these absences, the team has managed to perform well, relying on the allowance of six foreigners in the starting lineup. Noteworthy contributions have come from Dimitri Petratos and Jason Cummings, who have collectively scored four goals.
Predicted Playing XI: For Mohun Bagan Super Giant, caretaker manager Clifford Miranda is likely to maintain the three-man backline, with Brendan Hamill and Hector Yuste forming the core. The return of Sadiku, along with potential changes in the midfield, adds strategic options. The predicted XI includes Shaik(GK); Basfore, Yuste, Hamill, Rai, Martins, Boumous, Petratos, Nassiri; Sadiku, Cummings.
East Bengal, under the management of Carles Cuadrat, has found success in Cleiton Silva and Javier Siverio, who stepped up in the absence of Naorem Mahesh Singh. Cuadrat emphasizes the importance of closing out games, entrusting this responsibility to wingbacks Nishu Kumar and Mohamad Rakip. The predicted XI for East Bengal comprises Gill(GK); Rakip, Maher, Pardo, Nishu, Nandha, Crespo, Chhetri, Herrer; Siverio, Silva.
As the countdown to the Kolkata Derby begins, football enthusiasts can anticipate a clash of titans in the Kalinga Super Cup. The predicted XIs for both teams suggest a formidable lineup, setting the stage for an enthralling battle where each player’s contribution will play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Stay tuned for what promises to be a memorable encounter between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal.