Debasis Sen, Kolkata
Arch-rivals Mohun Bagan and East Bengal are set to clash in the quarterfinals of the Durand Cup, at the Salt Lake Stadium on Sunday, August 17. Both Kolkata giants cruised through the group stage, finishing at the top of their respective groups. While Mohun Bagan have held the upper hand in recent encounters, former Bagan midfielder Satyajit Chatterjee believes the upcoming showdown between the two traditional powerhouses of Indian football will be a closely fought affair.
According to Satyajit, “Fitness will be a concern for Jose Molina at the start of the season, with players returning after a break. However, Mohun Bagan remains a very strong side. If the players display the right intent and commitment, they have the potential to go all the way in the Durand Cup.”
On being asked about the derby, Satyajit said, “When it comes to the derby, I’d say it’s a fifty-fifty contest. East Bengal began their preparations earlier than Mohun Bagan, which could give them an edge in terms of fitness. However, when it comes to the overall quality of players, Mohun Bagan seems to have a slight advantage over East Bengal.”
He further added, “In recent seasons, the outcome of the derby has become fairly predictable—I’ve consistently backed Mohun Bagan to come out on top. The only potential concern might be their fitness levels. However, when it comes to overall quality—whether among Indian players or foreign signings—Mohun Bagan holds the edge. And as the season wears on, that gap is only expected to widen.”
While discussing about Mohun Bagan’s strengths, Satyajit said, “A major factor behind Mohun Bagan’s strong performance in recent times is the consistency brought by retaining most of their core players from previous seasons. Sahal Abdul Samad looks in great touch, and the midfield trio of Sahal, Apuia, and Anirudh Thapa stands out as the best in the league at the moment. No other team can match the quality and balance they bring in the middle of the park. Full credit to the Mohun Bagan management for backing and sticking with this talented group.”
Mohun Bagan Super Giants have bolstered their side by signing Abhishek Tekcham Singh from Punjab FC this season. The Manipuri left back has already shown promise in the group league matches of Durand Cup 2025.
“No doubt, Abhishek Singh’s addition is a major boost for Mohun Bagan this season,” he said. “With Mehtab Singh also expected to join soon, the competition in the backline will be intense. Subhasish and Ashish Rai will need to stay sharp with Abhishek in the mix—a positive sign for the squad overall.
“I’ve watched Abhishek during his time at Punjab FC—he’s a quality defender with impressive height, strength, and solid defensive instincts,” he pointed out.
Satyajit also shared his views on the Australian quartet, “The fitness of a couple of Aussie players might raise some concerns. Both Petratos and Cummings appeared to have put on a bit of weight, but as seasoned professionals, they know how to get back into peak condition.
“In contrast, McLaren looks sharp, and Tom Aldred is also in good form. The highlight, however, is that both McLaren and Cummings found the back of the net in their season opener against Diamond Harbour FC.”
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