On Saturday, July 13, 3:15 PM, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal will play each other in a group match of the Calcutta Football League (CFL) in what will be the first Kolkata Derby of the 2024–25 season. Because this is a Kolkata Derby, the match will still have a fierce atmosphere even if both sides are fielding their reserve players.
In addition to competing furiously for the title of ultimate brag, the team will be trying to advance to the CFL Championship Round. Whoever wins this one can get an advantage over the other heading into the 2024-25 Indian football season. This competition provides the perfect stage for the next young guns to showcase their abilities.
Recent CFL Form:
Mohun Bagan Super Giant:
The Mariners' 2024 CFL season has begun off to a bad start. They have conceded three goals in their first two games and have drew both of their opening games. They also appear weak at the back. A significant victory is very necessary for Mariners' to effectively begin their CFL season.
To defeat East Bengal, the Mariners' players must enter this game rejuvenated, completely motivated, and ready to perform at their highest level. To frustrate their opponents, Cardozo's team must both enhance their defensive framework and tap into their most clinical nature. Mohun Bagan may go closer to a top three spot and catch up to East Bengal on the standings with a significant victory.
East Bengal:
The CFL season has started off perfectly for the Red and Gold brigade, who have won both of their games handily. They are riding high in terms of momentum and confidence after scoring ten goals in their opening two games. Although Bino George appears to be getting the most out of his young, talented team, they still have to prove themselves against a worthy opponent like Mohun Bagan.
He has to make sure that the young players aren't scared of the environment or lose their confidence in this intense match. The East Bengal players may win another major game if they can maintain their composure and continue to perform like this well-oiled machine. A win might provide East Bengal the momentum they need to top their CFL group, but a defeat or draw would cause problems for them.
Predicted Lineup:
Mohun Bagan: (4-2-3-1)
Raja Barman (GK)
Defender- Raj Basfore, Dippendu Biswas, Sumit Rathi, Brijesh Giri
CDM- Abhishek Suryavamshi, Sibajit Singh
Midfielder- Taison Singh, Serton Kom, Salahudheen Adnan
Stricker- Suhail Bhat.
East Bengal: (4-2-3-1)
Aditya Patra (GK)
Defender- Bunando Singh, Sarthak Golui, Bathala Sunil, Tanmoy Ghosh
CDM- Naseeb Rahman, Tanmay Das
Midfielder- Aman CK, Shyamal Besra, Sayan Banerjee
Stricker- Jesin TK.
In case of East Bengal there could be some changes as they have been registered some of their 1st team players like David Lalhlansanga, Debjit Majumder, Vishnu PV, VP Suhair.
Players to Watchout:
Sayan Banerjee:
Sayan Banerjee, one of East Bengal's standout players from the previous year, seemed to have an interesting potential that won Carles Cuadrat over. In order to assist him get more match-ready and to give him a boost before the 2024–25 domestic season begins, he has been added to the CFL roster.
With three goals and two man of the match performance in his first two CFL games for East Bengal, Banerjee has already shown to be a popular player. With his skillful dribbling and deft movement in the final third, the youthful winger will provide a frightening threat to the Mariners' defence. He'll also try to keep up his scorching goal-scoring streak by seizing opportunities and bringing happiness to East Bengal.
Jesin TK:
In CFL 2024, the 24-year-old winger has already begun to demonstrate his efficacy. He has scored in both of East Bengal's current games; in the first, he converted a penalty, and in the second, he found the back of the net in the 47th minute.
In the ISL 2023–24, his skill earned him some playing time against FC Goa and Kerala Blasters. Cuadrat will undoubtedly consider keeping him in his plans going forward given his current form and skill set. Bino George will find Jesin TK to be quite helpful in the current competition as well.
Suhail Bhat:
Suhail Bhat is hoping to make his way into the Mohun Bagan senior team this season, and he has to step up in games like this to make it happen. The youthful attacker, who recently scored an outstanding double in the Mariners' draw with ASOS Rainbow, is entering the derby in excellent form.
Bhat can win crucial duels in the opposing half, is physically skilled enough to challenge defenders, and his off-the-ball mobility makes him an unpredictable danger. He must deftly coordinate with his colleagues to penetrate the East Bengal defence and enter crucial scoring zones covertly. If Suhail is able to unleash his vicious side and take advantage of whatever opportunities he gets, he might pose a serious threat to the Red and Gold.
Head to Head:
Total Matches – 397
Mohun Bagan SG wins – 129
East Bengal FC wins – 141
Draws – 127
Where to Watch:
On Saturday, the game between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal will begin at Salt Lake Stadium at 3:15 p.m. Zee 24 Ghanta will broadcast the match live, and viewers can also watch it live on the Zee5 app and on Zee 24 Ghanta's YouTube channel.
