Mohun Bagan will aim to further solidify their position at the top of the table as they face Bengaluru FC in a highly anticipated clash, often referred to as the Indian ‘El Clasico’. On Monday, the Salt Lake Stadium is expected to host more than 30,000 spectators, with the stakes heightened following Mohun Bagan’s disheartening defeat in the reverse fixture. Adding to the intensity is the fact that the Mariners have dropped crucial points in their last two matches, making this game a must-win for them to maintain their grip on the league shield. A slip-up could reopen the title race significantly.
Mohun Bagan, unbeaten in their last seven home games, have amassed 37 points from 17 matches, with 11 wins and four draws. In their last five games, they have secured three victories and two draws. Bengaluru FC, meanwhile, are struggling for form, winless in their previous four outings (D1, L3). Currently third in the standings with 28 points from 17 matches (8 wins, 4 draws), the Blues trail the Mariners by nine points and will be eager to pull off an upset to close the gap.
The Mariners will be without their midfield stalwart Anirudh Thapa, who is still recovering from injury. However, they are boosted by the return of former Bengaluru FC midfielder Ashique Kuruniyan, who will be available for selection. Ashique’s availability is expected to add depth and flexibility to Jose Molina’s tactical plans, especially as a second-half option. Concerns over Vishal Kaith’s availability were put to rest after the goalkeeper participated in a full-fledged training session on Sunday, with coach Molina confirming that Kaith is likely to start.
On the defensive front, Ashish Rai will miss the game due to suspension after accumulating four yellow cards. Dipendu Biswas is expected to replace him in the starting XI. Although Dipendu had a tough outing in the reverse fixture against Bengaluru FC, the local talent has the potential to shine in this crucial encounter.
For Bengaluru FC, much will depend on their attacking trio of Sunil Chhetri, Edgar Méndez and Ryan Williams, supported by attacking midfielder Alberto Noguera. Chhetri, enjoying another stellar season with 11 goals to his name, will undoubtedly be the key player to watch. The Salt Lake Stadium holds special significance in Chhetri’s career — this was where he played his farewell game for the national team. However, Bengaluru FC will also remember their heartbreak at this venue, losing to Mohun Bagan in a penalty shootout in the Durand Cup semi-finals. Chhetri will be eager to make his mark against his former team on this occasion.
Bengaluru FC have demonstrated a knack for late comebacks, having scored 10 goals in the final 15 minutes of matches this season — more than any other team. This statistic underlines their resilience and their ability to remain a threat until the final whistle. However, the absence of their defensive lynchpin Aleksandar Jovanovic poses a significant challenge. Coach Gerard Zaragoza will have to rely on an all-Indian backline, which will need to be at its best to counter Mohun Bagan’s formidable attack that has created 194 goal-scoring chances this season.
Adding to the excitement, Mariners’ fans are set to unveil the world’s largest hand-painted tifo at the stadium — a remarkable 25,500 square feet artwork that will symbolise their unwavering support for the team. With a big turnout, vibrant tifos, passionate chants and some of the league’s biggest stars on display, the match promises to be an electrifying encounter.
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