The stage is set for the first Kolkata derby of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season as Mohun Bagan Super Giant (SG) face off against Mohammedan SC at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
The much-anticipated match kicks off at 7:30 pm IST, with both teams looking to assert dominance and build momentum before the international break.
Mohun Bagan SG vs Mohammedan SC: Match Preview
Having both secured four points from their opening three matches, Mohun Bagan and Mohammedan SC are eager to secure a decisive victory in this thrilling derby. With history, pride, and league standing on the line, fans can expect an electrifying contest.
This Kolkata derby marks the first time Mohun Bagan SG and Mohammedan SC will face each other in the ISL. For the Mariners, the clash against debutant Mohammedan presents a unique opportunity to continue their successful record against new opponents. Historically, Mohun Bagan has won seven of the 11 matches they’ve played against teams they face for the first time in the ISL, losing and drawing twice each. This strong track record gives them the edge going into the match, but can they maintain this run against a resurgent Mohammedan SC side?
Mohammedan SC’s Quest for Away Glory
Mohammedan SC comes into the derby with a historic opportunity of their own. After their hard-fought win over Chennaiyin FC, Mohammedan became only the fifth team in ISL history to win their debut away game. Now, they have their sights set on becoming only the second team ever—following ATK’s achievement in 2014—to win both of their opening away matches in their first season. A victory over Mohun Bagan SG would solidify Mohammedan’s place in ISL history and provide them with a huge morale boost.
Defensive Concerns for Mohun Bagan SG
Despite their reputation as a dominant team, Mohun Bagan SG have had a shaky start to their defensive campaign, conceding seven goals in just three matches. Head coach Jose Molina has expressed his concerns over the team’s defensive frailties, attributing many of the goals to mistakes not only in defense but also in attack.
“We are conceding too many goals, and it’s clear. Some of those are due to errors at the back, but most come from mistakes during our attacking build-up,” Molina explained. “To improve defensively, we need to enhance our attacking play because a strong attack helps our defense.“
With the derby approaching, Mohun Bagan will be under pressure to tighten up at the back and avoid costly errors.
Mohammedan SC’s Growing Confidence
On the other hand, Mohammedan SC’s head coach Andrey Chernyshov is full of optimism. After registering their first ISL win against Chennaiyin FC, the team’s morale is at an all-time high. Chernyshov believes his players have gained the confidence they need to compete against the league’s best.
“My players now understand that they can not only play good football but also win matches in this league,” said Chernyshov. “We respect Mohun Bagan SG—they’re a strong side—but we’ve shown in our last three games that we are equally formidable. We need to play good football and be ready for the big moments.”
Mohammedan will be eager to carry their newfound belief into the derby and prove that they belong at the top level of Indian football.
Mohun Bagan SG vs Mohammedan SC: Head-to-head
Mohun Bagan and Mohammedan Sporting will meet for the first time in ISL history.
Key Players to Watch
Mirjalol Kasimov (Mohammedan SC)
As with any Kolkata derby, individual brilliance will play a significant role in determining the outcome. For Mohammedan SC, midfielder Mirjalol Kasimov has been pivotal in creating chances and winning fouls. With 11 fouls earned in just three appearances, Kasimov is likely to play a crucial role in generating set-piece opportunities, which could be decisive in a closely fought contest.
Amarjit Singh (Mohammedan SC)
Meanwhile, Mohammedan SC’s Amarjit Singh has been a rock in defense, recording four blocks in their last match, which ties the season record for most blocks in a single game. His ability to deny opposition strikers could be a deciding factor in keeping Mohun Bagan’s attack at bay.
Dimitrios Petratos (Mohun Bagan SG)
For Mohun Bagan SG, Dimitrios Petratos is one to watch. The versatile forward is on the verge of a milestone, needing just one more appearance to reach 50 ISL matches for the Mariners.
His experience and playmaking ability will be key to breaking down Mohammedan’s defense.
Lalengmawia Ralte (Mohun Bagan SG)
On the defensive side, Lalengmawia Ralte of Mohun Bagan has been a standout performer, winning all 14 of his attempted tackles this season.
His relentless energy and timing could prove critical in stifling Mohammedan’s attacking threats.
Mohun Bagan SG vs Mohammedan SC: Team News
Mohun Bagan SG
Ashique Kuruniyan’s availability is uncertain due to ongoing fitness concerns. Similarly, Sahal Abdul Samad’s absence from India’s squad for their upcoming fixtures has cast doubt on his readiness for this game. However, Alberto Rodriguez is expected to be fit and could make his return for the derby.
Mohammedan SC
The Black Panthers are expected to have a fully fit squad available for this crucial encounter.
Mohun Bagan SG vs Mohammedan SC: Predicted Lineup
Mohun Bagan SG
- Goalkeeper – Vishal Kaith
- Defenders – Asish Rai, Dippendu Biswas, Alberto Rodriguez, Subhasish Bose
- Midfielders – Lalengmawia Ralte, Anirudh Thapa, Greg Stewart
- Forwards – Manvir Singh, Dimitri Petratos, Jason Cummings
Mohammedan SC
- Goalkeeper – Padam Chhetri
- Defenders – Vanlalzuidika Chhakchhuak, Gaurav Bora, Joseph Adjei, Zodingliana Ralte
- Midfielders – Miraslov Kasimov, Amarjit Singh Kiyam, Alexis Gomez
- Forwards – Lalremsanga Fanai, Makhan Chothe, Franca
Mohun Bagan SG vs Mohammedan SC: Match Prediction
As both teams gear up for this fiercely contested Kolkata derby, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Mohun Bagan SG will be looking to assert their dominance, relying on their attacking prowess and historical record against debutant clubs. On the other hand, Mohammedan SC, riding a wave of confidence after their first ISL win, are ready to cause an upset and claim the bragging rights in this historic rivalry.
With key players poised to shine and both teams eager to secure three crucial points, the first Kolkata derby of the ISL 2024-25 season promises to be a spectacle. The Salt Lake Stadium is sure to be buzzing, and fans will be eagerly watching to see who emerges victorious in this much-anticipated clash.
Prediction – Mohun Bagan SG 2-1 Mohammedan SC
When and Where to Watch the Match? Broadcast and Streaming Details
The highly anticipated Mohun Bagan vs Mohammedan Sporting clash is scheduled for Saturday, October 5, at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata. The match will kick off at 7:30 PM IST.
Fans can catch the action live on Sports 18, with online streaming available on Jio Cinema. International viewers can tune in via the OneFootball app.
Read More: ISL 2024/25: Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal FC – Match Preview
When is the Mohun Bagan SG vs Mohammedan SC match?
The Mohun Bagan SG vs Mohammedan SC clash is scheduled for Saturday, October 5, at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata. The match will kick off at 7:30 PM IST.
