Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) are gearing up to face Punjab FC tomorrow at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur in the third quarterfinal of the ongoing Durand Cup. The defending champions last played on August 8, as their scheduled derby against arch-rivals East Bengal was cancelled due to the ongoing unrest in Kolkata. Punjab FC, on the other hand, played their last group stage match on August 11. After a lengthy break, both teams are returning to action, with one set to lose their unbeaten streak in this tournament.
Journey So Far
MBSG
The Kolkata giants opened their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Downtown Heroes, followed by a commanding 6-0 win against the Indian Air Force. With the derby cancelled, both teams were awarded a point, allowing Mohun Bagan to top Group A with seven points, edging out East Bengal on goal difference.
PFC
Punjab FC began their journey with a 3-0 win over the CISF Protectors and secured a 1-1 draw against a strong Kerala Blasters side. In their final group game, they recorded another 3-0 victory against Mumbai City’s reserve team, finishing second in Group C with seven points.
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Head-to-Head
Jose Molina’s team have dominated Punjab FC in their last three encounters. Last season, MBSG secured victories in both ISL games (3-1, 1-0) and triumphed 2-0 in their group-stage clash in the Durand Cup. Given this track record, MBSG fans are optimistic about another straightforward win for the Green-and-Maroons, although it is worth noting that Punjab have only conceded one goal in this tournament so far.
Team News
MBSG
Mohun Bagan fans will have to wait longer to see new signing Jamie Maclaren in action, as the Australian forward is still not fully fit and has not travelled with the squad. Ashique Kuruniyan, Glan Martins, and Dheeraj Singh are also absent as they continue to recover from injuries.
PFC
Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis has no injury or suspension concerns as he prepares for his first major test as Punjab FC’s coach. Facing a star-studded Mohun Bagan side, who are aiming for a record-breaking 17th Durand Cup title, will be a formidable challenge.
Players to Watch
MBSG
Jason Cummings: The Australian forward has made a strong start to the campaign, scoring two goals, and providing an assist in the last match against the Indian Air Force. Despite concerns about his fitness, Cummings’ performance has been promising, and MBSG fans are hoping for a stellar season from him. He also scored against Punjab in last year’s ISL.
Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia): One of the highest-paid Indian players at Mohun Bagan, the 23-year-old midfielder has shown composure and helped elevate Abhishek Suryavanshi’s game, as evidenced in the last match. Apuia will be crucial in controlling the midfield and dictating play.
Dimitri Petratos: Petratos has become a fan favourite at Mohun Bagan, and this could be his first game of the season. He has a strong record against Punjab, with two goals and one assist in last year’s ISL encounters.
PFC
Luka Majcen: The Slovenian forward has been in excellent form for Punjab FC, scoring three goals in the tournament so far. Besides his goal-scoring prowess, Majcen’s leadership on the field has been vital for the team. He also scored Punjab’s only goal in their last three matches against MBSG.
Vinit Rai: Signed from Mumbai City FC ahead of the season, the 26-year-old midfielder has made an impact with a goal and an assist in the tournament. Vinit’s experience has bolstered Punjab’s midfield.
Mushaga Bakenga: Although Bakenga has only played 57 minutes in the tournament, the 32-year-old forward has already scored two goals. His poaching ability makes him a key threat, and MBSG’s defence will need to be cautious against him.
Also Read: Shillong Lajong Stun Emami East Bengal for A Place in the Semi-finals