Rahul Giri in Goa
East Bengal Hold Nerves to Reach Super Cup Semifinals as Mohun Bagan Bow Out on Goal Difference
This edition of the Kolkata Derby, played as the group decider of the Super Cup, carried a very different atmosphere compared to the last one. Barely 300 fans were in attendance, most of them from nearby states, stationed outside West Bengal for work but unwilling to miss the opportunity to witness the great rivalry.
The match began on a cautious note, with both sides maintaining discipline and composure in the opening exchanges. East Bengal looked the more settled after the first 20 minutes and came close to breaking the deadlock when Hamid Ahadad’s header from Miguel Ferreira’s cross rattled the crossbar. Soon after, Mahesh Naorem failed to convert from close range following a neat set-up by Saul Crespo.
Mohun Bagan’s first clear chance came late in the first half when Apuia combined with Liston Colaco down the left flank, but Apuia’s final effort lacked conviction. Against the run of play, Miguel Ferreira tested Vishal Kaith with a powerful long-range strike, but the Bagan custodian responded with a strong save.
Mohun Bagan started the second half on the front foot, with Thapa and Colaco linking well, though the latter’s header sailed over. East Bengal, however, continued to defend resolutely and relied on quick transitions. At the hour mark, Hamid found himself one-on-one with Vishal Kaith after a deflection fell kindly his way, but the Bagan goalkeeper pulled off a brilliant save to keep his side in the game. Kaith later denied Jay Gupta from a corner with another sharp stop.
Jason Cummings and Robson Robinho were introduced in the second half to add creativity for Mohun Bagan. Robinho showed flashes of skill and managed to get past his markers, but his effort was blocked inside the box as East Bengal held firm.
In the end, East Bengal held their nerve and secured a vital draw, enough to take them through to the semifinals with five points and a superior goal difference. Mohun Bagan, despite finishing on the same points, bowed out of the competition on goal difference.
For the last few years, East Bengal have struggled against their arch-rivals, but the last three derbies have shown clear progress under Oscar Bruzon. The Spanish coach has managed to assemble a competitive unit capable of standing toe-to-toe with the Mariners.
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