Kolkata, October 30: The stage is set for one of Indian football’s most anticipated clashes as Mohun Bagan Super Giant take on East Bengal FC in their final Group A fixture of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26, kicking off at 7:30 PM on Friday. Beyond the rich legacy and fierce rivalry, tomorrow’s Kolkata Derby carries massive stakes, it’s not just about pride, but also about progression to the semi-finals.

Both teams come into the match with four points each, but East Bengal sit on top of the table owing to their superior goal difference. Mohun Bagan, after registering a goalless draw in their previous match.

Adding a layer of intrigue, the qualification scenario remains tightly poised. If Dempo SC manage to defeat Chennaiyin FC by more than three-nil margin, and the derby ends goalless, the fate of the semi-final spot could be decided by a draw of lots between Dempo and East Bengal. However, if Dempo win by a four-goal margin but concede even once, and the derby remains goalless, the Goan side will clinch the group instead. Dempo SC and Chennaiyin FC’s fixtures is scheduled to 4:30 PM tommorow.

Amidst all these calculations, both camps know the importance of taking matters into their own hands. East Bengal head coach Oscar Bruzon made his intent clear ahead of the big game.

“Tomorrow, we are going to try to play to win. And whatever the outcome is, at least we will not regret trying to play a defensive game, as we probably did in the previous years, because the results were not on the side of East Bengal,” Bruzon said.

Despite the ground concerns, Bruzon remains full of confidence, recalling how their last meeting in the IFA Shield 2025 Final ended in heartbreak for East Bengal, when Mohun Bagan triumphed in a tense tiebreaker. This time, however, Oscar and his brigade will be far more aware and determined to turn the tide in their favour.

On the other side, Mohun Bagan SG head coach Jose Molina, despite addressing that the new season hasn’t been easy, continues to draw strength and belief from his players’ unity and spirit as they prepare for the all-important clash.

“There aren’t many surprises left. Both teams know each other very well. We’ve been here before. We will fight for the supporters and try to make them happy.” Molina said.

Mohun Bagan, who made eight changes in their previous match, are expected to field a more balanced and attacking lineup this time, while East Bengal will rely on their fluid play and disciplined structure to hold their advantage. For the Red and Golds, even a draw might be enough, but the hunger for victory burns just as fiercely.

As the clock ticks down to kickoff at Fatorda, all roads lead to one of the most emotionally charged fixtures in Indian football. It’s a battle of pride, passion, and purpose that will decide who marches into the semi-finals of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26.