East Bengal and Mohun Bagan are set to face each other for the first time in the ISL this season in the Kolkata derby. The two teams will battle on February 4 at the Salt Lake Stadium, with the Red and Gold side fresh from their Kalinga Super Cup 2024 win, ending their trophy drought after 12 long years.
In doing so, they have made amends for the Durand Cup 2023 final loss at the hands of their bitter rivals. Moreover, Mohun Bagan SG were defeated in the group stage of the Super Cup, allowing East Bengal to make it to the knockout stages and then eventually winning the cup.
Kolkata derby details: Where to watch, kickoff time and details
The match will kick off at 19:30 IST on 4th February 2024. It will be telecasted live on Sports 18 HD and will be streamed on Jio Cinema.
While Mohun Bagan have been inactive in the transfer window, East Bengal have let go of Javi Siverio and Borja Herrera. As a result, they will play without the two players. But the debut for new signing Victor Vazquez might come too soon.
Antonio Habas will return to the dugout for the Mariners after his appointment to replace Juan Ferrando. After working as the sporting director, he has now returned to coaching the first team and will be battling it out against Carles Cuadrat in a heated fixture.
It will be a home game for Mohun Bagan SG, but as per the derby rules, the game will receive a 50/50 capacity in terms of the seating. However, a small advantage could be on the cards for the Mariners. Now that they will welcome back their international players, they could approach the game with a renewed vigour to avenge their Super Cup loss.
But, East Bengal’s newfound fiery display on the field, and relentless efforts throughout the 90 minutes will be difficult to overcome especially given the confidence boost they now have.
