Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal Preview, Prediction, Team News, and Lineups

Indian Super League Derby is set to take place on 19th October at 7:30 PM IST as East Bengal will be hosting Mohun Bagan. Both teams are eyeing a win to improve their chances in the playoff race after the commencement of this season. Over a century-old Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal rivalry, declared by all the fans and critics as the greatest in India, Asia’s deadliest, and one of the top five in the world, is all set for a thrilling 400th Derby encounter.

True Colloquialism East Bengal and Mohun Bagan matches are always very competitive because both teams have long been rulers of Indian football.

Mohun Bagan Super Giants team News

This time, the attacking lineup can depend much on World Cupper Jamie Maclaren, who will have support from Dimitri Petratos or Greg in the forward. Liston can be used on the left wing while Manvir Singh could be at the right wing. Either Sahal or Thapa in the midfield can be brought into the playing eleven to give apt support for Dimi or Greg, with Apuia and Deepak Tangri who had an awesome run this season potentially as a blocker.

Apart from these, Captain Subhasish Bose will have to shoulder a huge responsibility at managing the counterattacks from East Bengal and there he will have to step up the pace with agility. Centre back: Alberto Rodriguez, Tom Aldred and Right back Ashis Rai will be on his support. And for that solid defensive unit Vishal Kaith will be absolutely important in terms of providing critical support at the right moment.

A few weeks ago, when one of our Cricfut representatives asked Mohun Bagan’s assistant coach, Bastob Roy, about the derby, he responded, “We are currently treating all league matches with equal importance, although the derby is undoubtedly special.”

When Jamie Maclaren was questioned about the derby, he initially smiled and said, “Which derby? Mohammedan or East Bengal?” He then added, “I’m ready to play in my first derby, and I hope to create some memorable moments in this one.”

Emami East Bengal team News

Till date, East Bengal had played four matches without earning a single point and was at the end of the table. A few days back, coach Carlos Cuadrat was relieved of his duties, and the interim coach appointed was Bino George. Wanting to change their fortunes, the Red and Gold brigade recently appointed Oscar Bruzon as the new head coach.

They will probably start with the task of leading the attack with Cleaton Silva, supported by Nandha and Vishnu. Our sources indicate that Dimitri Diamantakos might not be included in the match as he is still recovering from a previous injury. There is no situation at present where the entire 90 minutes can be played. However, he could come on for a few minutes. It would be smart not to play too many poker faces in front of him.

Besides, Mahesh is also least likely to open fire from the first go and might even give a place in the starting eleven to Vishnu. To add more teeth to the attacking team, either Talal or Saul Crespo can be accommodated in midfield, and Souvik Chakraborty along with Jeakson might play as a blocker. Defence: No word on new signing Anwar Ali’s fitness, but probably to play along side Hector Yuste, with Lalchungnunga and one of M. Rakip or Zothanpuia. Goalkeeper is still something of a worry.

Despite his talent, Gill’s mistakes this season raise doubts about his reliability for this crucial game. The team might opt to start the experienced Debjit Majumder instead, which could provide more stability.

Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal Head-to-Head Record in ISL

So far in the ISL, Mohun Bagan has won seven matches and drawn one, while East Bengal has yet to win the first. The head-to-head results clearly indicate that Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) has been dominant since joining the league. East Bengal’s successes against MBSG have come outside the ISL, including victories in the Durand Cup and the Super Cup group stages during the 2023-24 season. With the upcoming clash on October 19, it will be intriguing to see if East Bengal can break this streak or if Mohun Bagan can extend their dominance.

Predicted Lineups

East Bengal Predicted Lineup (H): Prabhsukhan Gill (GK), Zothanpuia, H Yuste, Anwar, Lalchungnunga, Jeakson Singh, M Talal, Crespo, Vishnu PV, Cleiton Silva, Nandha Kumar.

Mohun Bagan Predicted Lineup (A): Vishal Kaith(GK), Subhasish Bose, Tom Aldred, Alberto Rodriguez, Asish Rai, Apuia, Anirudh Thapa, Greg Stwert, Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, Jamie MacLaren.

Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal Key Battles

Nandha (East Bengal) vs Subhasish Bose (Mohun Bagan)

This matchup is crucial for both teams, with Nandha’s quick feet and dribbling ability facing off against Subhasish Bose’s defensive solidity and physicality. The outcome of this duel could significantly influence the attacking momentum for East Bengal and the defensive stability for Mohun Bagan.

Souvik Chakraborti (East Bengal) vs Greg Stewart (Mohun Bagan)

Souvik’s energetic play and vision in midfield will be put to the test against either Stewart’s creativity or Petratos’ tactical awareness. This battle will be pivotal in determining control of the midfield, allowing either side to dictate the pace of the game.

Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal Prediction

Even though Mohun Bagan is currently ahead in the standings, the match remains unpredictable. While predictions are tricky in derby matches, this one will always remain a 50-50 affair. The team that can maintain control over their nerves will emerge victorious. Whichever side can handle the pressure better will likely come out on top.

Predicted Score: 1-1