For the second season in the Indian Super League, SC East Bengal will face ATK Mohun Bagan in the Kolkata Derby in search of their first win of the season. With a 1-1 draw against Jamshedpur FC, the Red and Golds have enjoyed a good start to the new season.
Manuel Diaz’s men, on the other hand, will be keen to win their first match against their arch-rivals because it would be a statement for their fans, and they will also acquire bragging rights in addition to three points.
However, the Red and Gold Army will face a difficult task in getting past last season’s finalists, ATK Mohun Bagan. The Mariners won 4-2 against Kerala Blasters to kick off their new season. As a result, it would be fascinating to see how both Kolkata-based teams do in the intense Kolkata Derby.
Both clubs will rely on a certain group of players to assist them to win this thrilling match. So, let’s have a look at the players that have the potential to make a big difference in the Kolkata Derby.
Franjo Prce: SC East Bengal
Since joining SC East Bengal, the Croatian defender has made an immediate impression. In the Red and Gold Army’s season opener against Jamshedpur FC, he scored the game’s only goal. SC East Bengal took a well-deserved lead thanks to a fantastic acrobatic kick from the former Lazio junior team star.
However, they were unable to maintain their lead for long, as Jamshedpur equalized before the halftime break. However, Prce and the other defenders were up to the task, as they prevented the Men of Steel from scoring again. They were able to salvage a point from the match, and Prce’s effort was much praised. In the huge Derby, the Croatian defender will face Roy Krishna, and it will be intriguing to see if he can hold his own against the prolific Fijian striker.
Manvir Singh: ATK Mohun Bagan
Since last season, the Indian forward has been a constant for the Mariners. Manvir has been a revelation under Antonio Lopez Habas, and he’ll be looking to build on that success this season. Last season’s opening derby saw the Punjabi striker scored in his club’s 2-0 triumph over SC East Bengal.
Last season, he scored six goals and added three assists for the Mariners, and he formed a strong bond with Roy Krishna and David Williams. This season, he’ll try to attack the Red and Golds from the right side once more.
Antonio Perosevic: SC East Bengal
In SC East Bengal’s 1-1 draw with Jamshedpur FC, this was probably the finest start. Perosevic’s ball development and take-on were outstanding. The seasoned forward, who has played for Croatia, brushed off opponents and slipped past them with ease. The only thing he was missing was his shooting boots. This is what the fans will expect him to accomplish in the forthcoming derby.
Perosevic is noted for his dribbling and ability to play in a variety of offensive positions. In addition, the 29-year-old can bring in other forwards in the game, something he will try to develop against the Mariners. Perosevic has played in top-tier leagues in Croatia, Hungary, and the United Arab Emirates, and he is capable of holding his own in a high-octane derby.
Roy Krishna: ATK Mohun Bagan
Roy Krishna, one of the most prolific strikers in Indian football history, continues to improve with each passing day. The Fijian captain is quick on his feet, strong, and has a wide range of abilities. Last season, he scored 14 goals and had 10 assists for the ATKMB, and he worked well with Manvir Singh and David Williams in the attack.
The 34-year-old was instrumental in both of ATK Mohun Bagan’s derby victories. In their 3-1 win over the Red and Golds, he scored twice and added two assists in the second match. Krishna will attempt to take center stage for the Mariners in yet another derby.
Hugo Boumous: ATK Mohun Bagan
Hugo Boumous, the Mariners’ newest star this season, will undoubtedly play a key part in the Kolkata Derby. He has everything planned to wreak havoc on the SC East Bengal defense. In the Indian Super League, he made an immediate impression by scoring a brace in their 4-2 victory.
In attack, the French offensive midfielder worked effectively with Krishna and can glide past defenders with ease. Under Sergio Lobera, Boumous led FC Goa to the League Winners’ Shield before leading Mumbai City FC to the ISL double last season. Boumous will attempt to do the same for the Mariners this season, as he looks to make an impression in the big game.
Read: In the forthcoming Kolkata Derby, there are five things to look forward to
