Durand Cup 2024 Semi-Final: Mohun Bagan SG vs Bengaluru FC - at Salt Lake Stadium, Tactical Analysis, Key Players and Livestream Info

 On Tuesday, August 27 at the legendary Salt Lake Stadium, the 2024 Durand Cup semi-final between Mohun Bagan defending champions and Bengaluru FC promises to be a real thriller. Both of these Indian Super League (ISL) heavyweights are determined to reach the grand finale thus making this the most entertaining and competitive encounter in this tournament.

Mohun Bagan, under the tactical brilliance of Jose Molina, have been on a mission to retain their Durand Cup title. As they prepare to face Bengaluru FC, the Mariners are aware that this match is more than just a step towards the final; it's a test of their mettle before the upcoming ISL season. A win would not only boost their confidence but also reinforce their belief in their ability to dominate Indian football. However, a loss could raise questions about their readiness and quality as they head into the 2024-25 ISL campaign.

For Bengaluru FC, this semi-final is an opportunity to showcase their strength and make a statement ahead of the ISL season. The Blues have been one of the most efficient sides in the Durand Cup so far, and their thrilling late win over Kerala Blasters in the quarter-final highlighted their resilience and grit. Now, they face an even bigger challenge against a Mohun Bagan side that boasts home advantage and a star-studded attacking lineup.

Key Battles to Watch

One area needing improvement for Mohun Bagan is their defense. Jose Molina’s side showed some attacks brilliance but one thing is for sure; it can’t afford to be defensively weak facing such an encounter where stakes are really high. Among other team members, Liston Colaco outshined them all participating in this tournament on account of his amazing winger role. 

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His deceptive moves, ball control skills and ability to burst through had always been a threat against opposing teams’ defenses; now going against Nikhil Poojary (his teammate in national duty), let’s wait and see how this contest plays out.

On the flip side, Jorge Pereyra Diaz who hails from Argentina has been one of the front runners for Bengaluru FC. In the Durand Cup, one of the most dangerous forwards Diaz has smoothly slotted into Gerard Zaragoza's approach. 

Three of his goals including a last-minute goal against Kerala Blasters while they were all 1-0 down, which made him an important player for the Blues. As Bengaluru FC readies to face Mohun Bagan, Diaz's capability to take advantage of counter-attacks and offensive play will be significant in dismantling Mariners’ defenses.

Tactical Insights

A robust defense and shrewd tactics are something that Bengaluru FC’s head coach Gerard Zaragoza must focus on. The Salt Lake Stadium has one of the most hostile environments in Indian football, so mental strength with precision down to the letter is called for. The Blues cannot be daunted by the event itself and Zaragoza will probably stress on keeping a strong defense and maximizing counter-attack opportunities.

Mohun Bagan on the other hand will have to take control over the pace of play in order to leverage their home advantage. The Mariners aim at controlling possession, creating opportunities through fast paced attacking players while exerting consistent pressure on Bengaluru’s defense.A victory here would not only ensure they reach finals in this tournament but also serve as a warning shot across other ISL sides.

Match Details

Venue: The Durand Cup semi-final between Mohun Bagan and Bengaluru FC will take place at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

Date and Time: The match is scheduled for Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at 5:30 PM IST.

Telecast and Live Streaming: The game will be telecasted live on the Sony Ten 2 channel, and fans can also catch the action via live streaming on Sony LIV.