Match Decided by Sahal's Moment of Magic
Mohun Bagan Super Giant began their Durand Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against city rivals East Bengal at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday. The lone goal came from midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad in the 67th minute, slotting home after a clever cut-back from the right flank.
Lively Contest in Kolkata Derby
The Kolkata derby atmosphere was electric, with both sets of fans creating a wall of noise. East Bengal started brightly, with Cleiton Silva forcing a save from Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith in the 12th minute. The red-and-golds dominated possession but lacked a cutting edge in the final third.
Mohun Bagan grew into the game after the break. Head coach Antonio Lopez Habas introduced Liston Colaco to add pace on the left, and it paid dividends. Colaco’s cross found Sahal, who controlled and fired low into the net.
Defensive Solidity Seals the Points
The Mariners' defense, marshaled by Pritam Kotal and Anwar Ali, held firm against late pressure from East Bengal. Captain Subhasish Bose made a crucial goalline clearance in the 84th minute to preserve the lead.
"It was a typical derby – intense and tight. I'm happy we got the goal and three points," Sahal said after the match. "We knew they would come at us, but we stayed compact."
The win gives Mohun Bagan early momentum in Group A, while East Bengal will look to bounce back in their next fixture against Kerala Blasters.
Statistical Highlights
- Mohun Bagan had 42% possession but registered 8 shots on target to East Bengal's 3.
- Sahal Abdul Samad's goal was his first in the Durand Cup since 2022.
- This was the 38th meeting between the two sides in the tournament's history.
