Mohun Bagan gears up for Kolkata Derby with a Convincing 2-0 Victory over Punjab FC in Durand Cup 2023
Mohun Bagan Super Giant displayed their footballing prowess once again as they secured a comfortable 2-0 win against Punjab FC in the ongoing Durand Cup 2023. The victory not only marked their second consecutive triumph in the tournament but also set the stage for an electrifying clash in the upcoming Kolkata Derby.
In front of an exuberant crowd at a jam-packed Kishore Bharati stadium in Kolkata, Mohun Bagan exhibited a seamless blend of tactical acumen and attacking flair. The team dominated possession from the kick-off, setting the tone for an intense encounter. It wasn’t long before their efforts translated into tangible results.
First-Half
Mohun Bagan Supergiant started the game well on a wet pitch with plenty of changes on their side. Vishal Kaith, the golden boy for Bagan was back under the post along with Hamil, Glen, and Bomous. Anwar Ali made his debut for the Mariners. On the other hand, Punjab FC, who earned promotion to the ISL by winning the I-League, appeared fresh. They looked great, particularly in terms of their defensive shape.
Although Mohun Bagan was dominating the play as Hugo Bomous controlled the midfield, Punjab FC maintained their defensive shape very well. The first chance for Bagan came in the 15th minute when Suhail put a dynamic cross but was cleared well by the Punjab defense. At the 19th-minute mark, Punjab FC put in a great freekick, only to be headed out by the brilliance of Anwar. A moment later Manvir, opened the scoring for Mohun Bagan, as his cross was deflected by Punjab defender Melroy. A great move by the Mariners as Ravi Rana perfectly lobbed the ball leading to their opening goal.
The action continued and the Mohun Bagan stood tall in the midfield battle thus clutching more possession. Hamil and Anwar displayed a great show in defense helped by Vishal Kaith under the bar.
Second-Half
The top scorer of last season Dimitri Petratos came in for Suhail at the start of the second half. Punjab FC started the second half really well with a series of goal-bound attacks but lacked a finish. A moment later, Hugo scored his first goal in the Durand Cup giving his team a two-goal advantage. The move was started by him, as he passed the ball to Dimi, who slid it to overlapping Liston on the left. From a measured cross of Liston, Bomous took it with ease to score past the Punjab FC keeper who made a meal out of the cross.
After conceding two goals, there was a spring in the steps of the Punjab FC players. They started passing the ball well and creating attacks. In the 49th minute, Mohun Bagan escaped luckily as the ball hit the crosspiece and went out. A great cross from the left flank found unmarked Luka who took the shot.
Punjab FC constantly applied pressure on Mohun Bagan’s defense, raising questions about their resilience. Vishal Kaith again came as the savior under the goalpost with his heroic saves. Mohun Bagan on the counter failed to score more goals as Liston wasted some good opportunities.
Juan Ferrando replaced Hugo and Glen with the likes of Kiyan and Hnamte keeping in mind their fatigue. Punjab FC tried hard but they lacked proper finishing. Hence the mighty Mohun Bagan side did enough to keep a clean sheet which earned them the crucial 3 points. As a matter of fact, they comfortably sit at the top of the table with 6 points from 2 games.
With the victory firmly secured, Mohun Bagan’s attention now turns to the much-anticipated Kolkata Derby. The clash against arch-rivals East Bengal will be a test of skill and strategy. Consequently, it will be a battle for bragging rights and regional supremacy. The momentum gained from their Durand Cup triumphs positions Mohun Bagan as a formidable force heading into the derby.
As the city gears up for the iconic Kolkata Derby, Mohun Bagan’s latest victory serves as a catalyst for excitement and anticipation. The team’s convincing win against Punjab FC has ignited the hopes of fans and reaffirmed their status as contenders in the Durand Cup.
