Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated arch-rivals East Bengal 1-0 in the opening match of the Durand Cup. The pre-season derby took place at the Salt Lake Stadium, with Sahal Abdul Samad’s goal proving to be the decisive moment of the match. The victory marked a winning start for Greek tactician Panagiotis Dilberis’s tenure as Mohun Bagan’s coach.
The lone goal of the match came in the 52nd minute. Mohun Bagan’s pressing high up the pitch led to youngster Kiyan Nassiri winning possession near the East Bengal penalty area. Nassiri drove to the byline and squared the ball across the six-yard box. Manvir Singh attempted a backheel, but the ball came loose, allowing Sahal Abdul Samad to calmly slot it into an unguarded net.
Defensive Strength and Goalkeeping Heroics
Mohun Bagan displayed a combination of clinical finishing and resolute defending throughout the match. Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith played a crucial role in preserving the team’s narrow lead, delivering a commanding performance between the posts and securing a clean sheet. Kaith effectively marshalled the backline, with defenders led by Rahul Bheke maintaining their composure against East Bengal’s threats.
The team’s defensive organisation was a key factor in their victory. Mohun Bagan maintained a disciplined defensive structure while also engaging in purposeful attacking play. This balanced approach contributed to their ability to hold onto the advantage gained from Sahal’s goal.
East Bengal, under coach Antonio Habas, experienced a defeat in their first outing despite an improved performance in the second half. The opening half of the match was evenly contested, with Mohun Bagan having greater possession. East Bengal, the reigning ISL champions, showed glimpses of danger on the counterattack during certain periods of the game.
Neither side managed to create a clear scoring opportunity before the interval, as early-season rustiness was evident in both attacking units. Despite the high intensity of the derby, both defensive lines remained compact and disciplined, preventing forwards from establishing a rhythm.
East Bengal’s Late Push and Kaith’s Crucial Save
In the latter stages of the match, East Bengal intensified their efforts to find an equaliser. They dominated possession during the final 15 minutes, pushing Mohun Bagan deeper into their own half. Jeakson Singh attempted a long ball to release P.V. Vishnu, but the pass went out of play.
Soon after, Mohammed Rashid received the ball on the edge of the penalty area and struck a fierce first-time volley. However, Deepak Tangri made a perfectly timed sliding block to deny the attempt. East Bengal came closest to levelling the score in the 87th minute when Vishnu delivered a cross from the left side. Dani Ramirez made a delicate touch at the near post, but the ball clipped the outside of the upright and went wide.
Vishal Kaith produced a critical save in the second minute of stoppage time. Ramirez floated a cross to the far post, where Rashid connected from close range. Kaith reacted brilliantly, diving to his right to make a sensational point-blank stop, thereby securing his side’s victory and preserving the clean sheet.
Upcoming Durand Cup Fixtures
The action in the Durand Cup is set to continue with matches in other locations. The city of Ranchi will host its first-ever Durand Cup matches, with Group C fixtures scheduled at Birsa Munda Stadium from Sunday until August 16. The Chief Minister, Hemant Soren, is expected to inaugurate the tournament in Ranchi.
Group C includes Jamshedpur FC, Sporting Club Delhi, Indian Air Force, and the defending champions Defenders FC from the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. Jamshedpur FC will face Defenders FC in Ranchi’s opening fixture. In addition to Kolkata and Ranchi, matches for the tournament will also be played in Guwahati, Shillong, and Imphal.
Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri confirmed that security and medical arrangements, including ambulances, doctors, and medicines, would be in place for the matches in Ranchi. Traffic police have designated three parking areas for spectators: Ranchi University ground for vehicles from Khunti, Jamshedpur, Gumla, Lohardaga, Ratu, Pithoria, and Kanke; Tribal Welfare Research Institute ground for vehicles from Tatisilwai, Khelgaon, Booty More, Bariatu, and adjoining areas; and Army ground for vehicles from Dhurwa, Hinoo, Doranda, Main Road, Lalpur, Harmu, and Argora. VIPs and accredited media will have parking available at Morabadi Parade Ground, and SP (traffic) Rakesh Singh advised residents to avoid the Morabadi route in four-wheelers.
The next match will see Jamshedpur FC take on NorthEast United FC in a Group C fixture in Ranchi on Sunday.
Source: theprint.in
