With a mix of grit and skill, these domestic stars could be gamechangers in the battle against East Bengal
The Kolkata Derby is more than simply a football game; it's a spectacle, a confrontation that divides fans and sparks countless arguments. On January 11, 2024, the "Boro Match" between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal takes the central stage.
Saturday blockbuster “Boro Match” will now be played at Guwahati. See you mariners. 💚♥️#MBSG #JoyMohunBagan #আমরাসবুজমেরুন pic.twitter.com/6dJpCspUZA
— Mohun Bagan Super Giant (@mohunbagansg) January 8, 2025
However, this time, the Indian Super League (ISL) Kolkata Derby will be held in Guwahati rather than the legendary Salt Lake Stadium. While both teams' world-class international players will definitely amaze, Mohun Bagan's Indian talents have the potential to steal the show.
Every Derby requires flare, and Liston Colaco provides precisely that. This season, the winger has been a steady presence for Mohun Bagan, appearing in 14 games and clocking over 1,000 minutes.
Goals and dribbles: Colaco's two goals and 22 successful dribbles may appear minor, but his ability to beat defenders gives opportunities when none seem possible.
Chances created: With 12 opportunities and equal critical passes, he keeps opponents on their toes.
Defensive workrate: Surprisingly, he's also been efficient defensively, recording 72 recoveries and winning 84 duels.
Colaco's ability to alter gears fast and execute in high-pressure situations makes him a possible match-winner.
Manvir Singh offers strength and accuracy to the opposite wing. Singh has quietly helped Mohun Bagan's domination this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists in 13 games.
Passing and interceptions: His 72% passing accuracy and 15 interceptions highlight his significance in both attack and defence.
Duels and aerial battles: Singh is a physically intimidating opponent, having won 57 ground duels and an astonishing 25 aerial clashes.
Singh's adaptability may be vital in a high-stakes game like the Derby.
Lalengmawia Ralte, aka Apuia, is Mohun Bagan's defensive midfield maestro. With 83% passing accuracy and 446 completed passes, Apuia keeps the engine room running.
Interceptions and recoveries: He leads the team with 20 interceptions and 76 recoveries, disrupting opposing plays with exceptional effectiveness.
Consistency: Having played 12 matches and over 1,000 minutes, his dependability is critical to Bagan's success.
Apuia's serenity under pressure might mean the difference between a victory and a lost opportunity.
Every Derby needs a leader, and Subhasish Bose nicely fills the role. The left back, who also captains the team, combines defensive strength with offensive ambition.
Defensive numbers: Bose has made 28 interceptions, 24 tackles, and 32 clearances this season.
Contributions upfront: With three goals and an assist, he not only keeps opponents out but also propels his club ahead.
Bose's leadership and work ethic will surely motivate the Mariners on the big day.
Behind any great squad lies a dependable custodian, and Vishal Kaith has been just that. Kaith has been a fortress for Mohun Bagan, keeping seven clean sheets in 14 outings.
Saves and distribution: His 79% save percentage and 110 successful distributions demonstrate his quick reflexes and precise ball movement.
Big-Match temperament: Kaith thrives in pressure situations, having faced 130 shots this season and conceded only 13 goals.
Kaith's poise might change the outcome in a game with razor-thin margins.
While foreign stars make headlines, Mohun Bagan's Indian players provide the backbone. Colaco's flare, Manvir's adaptability, Apuia's control, Bose's leadership, and Kaith's tenacity might tip the balance in their favour.
Will these Indian talents rise to the occasion and produce when it counts the most? The solution is in Guwahati, where the battle lines have been set, and the stakes could not be more significant.
