Kolkata, October 31: The much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Emami East Bengal FC ended in a goalless stalemate in the final Group A clash of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26. While the result may not have lived up to the fans’ expectations in terms of attacking football, scene-stealing, it was enough to send East Bengal through to the semifinals on goal difference.
Both sides finished the group stage with six points each, but it was Oscar Bruzon’s Red and Gold Brigade who advanced, having maintained a superior goal record. The match, however, lacked the usual intensity and flair associated with the historic rivalry.
East Bengal looked slightly more purposeful in the opening half, pressing higher and creating a few half-chances through Miguel and Bipin. Mohun Bagan SG tried to respond in the 19th minute, when Manvir move forward and sent in a low cross for Maclaren, but East Bengal defenders intercepted before the Australian could get a touch. A header from Bipin struck the post in the 24th minute, the closest either team came to scoring in the entire contest. Mohun Bagan SG, on the other hand, struggled to find rhythm and were often second-best in midfield exchanges.
Mohun Bagan SG had a rare sight of goal in the 41st minute, when Liston’s cutback found Apuia at the edge of the area. His shot, however, went straight to the East Bengal keeper, who held firm. Moments later, in the 42nd minute, Miguel tried from a tight angle, forcing Kaith into a sharp save at his near post.
The second half offered more physical battles than attacking football. In the 48th minute, Thapa’s free-kick delivery from the right went unanswered inside the box. Around the 60th minute, Hamid tried a shot from inside the area, only to see Vishal Kaith gather comfortably.
Mohun Bagan SG’s best opportunity came in the 78th minute, when Robson’s close-range shot was heroically blocked by Anwar Ali, denying what could have been a decisive goal.
In the dying moments of the match, the Mariners pushed forward through corners and long balls, but East Bengal’s defence held its shape.
It was a derby filled with grit rather than grace, few real chances, frequent fouls, and plenty of tactical discipline. Both sides were guilty of slowing down the tempo, and neither goalkeeper faced much threat. Mohun Bagan needed a win but rarely showed attacking urgency, while East Bengal, knowing a draw would suffice, showed bit urgency, played with control and composure to secure progression.
history seemed to repeat itself, two seasons ago, Mohun Bagan SG were also knocked out of the same tournament by East Bengal in similar fashion, as the Red and Golds advanced to the semifinals once again at their rivals’ expense.
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