The Salt Lake Stadium came alive as Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC clashed in the first Kolkata Derby of the 10th season of the Indian Super League (ISL). The match, filled with excitement and drama, ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, presenting fans with an unforgettable spectacle. Let’s delve into the highlights of this historic encounter that showcased the fierce rivalry and skillful performances of both teams.
Table of Contents
Match Highlight
A Battle of Titans
Early Dominance by East Bengal FC
East Bengal FC, buoyed by their recent triumph in the Kalinga Super Cup, wasted no time asserting their dominance. In the 3rd minute, fullback Nishu Kumar delivered a precise cross into the box, setting up Ajay Chhetri for a sensational goal that ignited the crowd’s fervor.
Habas’ Response
Mohun Bagan’s head coach, Antonio Lopez Habas, known for his derby credentials, rallied his team to respond. In the 17th minute, striker Armando Sadiku showcased his clinical finishing skills, capitalizing on Brendan Hamill’s impeccable delivery to equalize the score.
The Red & Gold Brigade’s Resurgence
Strategic Substitution
East Bengal FC’s momentum surged after Glan Martins replaced the injured Brendan Hamill in the 52nd minute. Under Carles Cuadrat’s guidance, the team intensified their attack, putting Mohun Bagan under pressure.
Cleiton Silva’s Panenka
In the 55th minute, Naorem Mahesh Singh won a crucial foul, leading to a penalty opportunity for East Bengal FC. Captain Cleiton Silva seized the moment with a breathtaking panenka, catching Vishal Kaith off-guard and propelling his team into the lead.
Habas’ Heroics
The Resilience of Sahal Abdul Samad
With time running out, Mohun Bagan needed a hero to salvage a point. Sahal Abdul Samad stepped up, displaying relentless determination amidst a sea of loose balls in the box. In the 88th minute, his persistence paid off as he set up Dimitrios Petratos for the equalizing goal, ensuring that Mohun Bagan walked away with a hard-fought draw.
Conclusion
The first Kolkata Derby of the 10th season of the Indian Super League lived up to its billing as an electrifying encounter between two footballing giants. Despite East Bengal FC’s early dominance and Cleiton Silva’s audacious panenka, Mohun Bagan showcased their resilience, with Armando Sadiku and Sahal Abdul Samad delivering crucial goals. As the dust settles on this captivating match, both teams can take pride in their performances, setting the stage for an exhilarating rivalry that will continue to captivate fans for seasons to come.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant Starting XI
Kaith (GK), Anwar, Hamill, Thapa, Petratos, Subhashis (C), Sahal, Tangri, Kiyan, Hector, Sadiku
East Bengal FC Starting XI
Gill (GK), Rakip, Lalchungnunga, Hijazi, Nishu, Saul, Ajay, Pardo, Nandha, Mahesh, Cleiton (C)
