Introduction
Indian football fans are in for a treat tonight as two of the oldest rivals in the history of this country’s football are set to face off tonight. It’s the arch rivals from the city of Kolkata – ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal locking horns at the Tilak Maidan stadium at 7:30 PM IST.
Both of the Kolkata based sides have made some quality signings in the transfer market this time around, and they would be looking to claim the bragging rights in the upcoming Kolkata Derby.
Head to Head
Whilst SC East Bengal have had more number of wins in the Kolkata Derby so far, the Mariners have outclassed them in their last two encounters in the ISL.
In ISL ‘s first Kolkata Derby, which took place last season, ATKMB defeated SC East Bengal comfortably by 2-0. Roy Krishna and Manvir Singh were the goalscorers for the ISL finalists. In their second encounter, it was a two goal victory for the Mariners in the Kolkata Derby once again, as Roy Krishna, David Williams and Javi scored for ATK Mohun Bagan, whilst Tiri put one at the back of his own net.
Build Up
ATK Mohun Bagan play this encounter on the back of a convincing 4-2 victory over Kerala Blasters. Their star signing Hugo Boumous is already off to an electrifying start in the Hero ISL after scoring a brace in the last match, and he will be looking to add more to his tally in the Kolkata Derby.
Meanwhile, SC East Bengal haven’t had the perfect start to their ISL campaign. Whilst the likes of Perosevic did show some promise in the last match, it was not enough to seal the three points in their opener against Jamshedpur FC. They will have to be at their best, both attacking and defense wise in order to get anything from this Kolkata Derby.
Probable Lineups
ATK MOHUN BAGAN
SC EAST BENGAL
Players to watch out for
Hugo Boumous
With 24 assist in 59 ISL games, the Moroccan International is the highest assist provider in the history of this tournament. His creative ability coupled with his eye for goal will be crucial to the Mariners’ chances in the Kolkata Derby.
Roy Krishna
With 3 goals in two games against SC East Bengal, the Fijian will probably the biggest threat for the Red and Gold Brigade’s leaky defence. Manolo Diaz will have to organize his defence watertight in order to contain the dangerous Roy Krishna.
Perosevic
The Croat target man was crowned Hero of the Match in SC East Bengal’s 1-1 draw against Jamshedpur. His attacking prowess will be crucial for Manolo Diaz’s side if they are to pose any sort of attacking threat against ATKMB/s strong defensive unit.
Arindam Bhattacharya
If SC East Bengal have to contain the likes of Roy Krishna, Boumous, Liston and Manvir; they will need their captain to be at his imperial best. The veteran keeper will be a crucial asset for the Red and Gold brigade and he will be looking to make a strong mark against his former club.
Conclusion
Whilst ATK Mohun Bagan may be the favourites to win their third successive win in the Kolkata Derby, SC East Bengal aren’t walkovers by any means. The Red and Gold brigade have made some quality signings this time around, and you won’t rule out anything against them, especially in the Kolkata Derby wherein they have a historical advantage.
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Joy mohunbagan. ♥️💚