In the highly anticipated final of the 2023 Durand Cup, Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC are set to renew their historic rivalry on September 3, 2023, at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. This Kolkata derby will determine the champion of the 132nd edition of Asia’s oldest football tournament.
The 2023 Durand Cup has been a thrilling journey, and it will culminate in a showdown between two of Indian football’s most illustrious clubs. The outcome of this final could have significant implications for both teams in the 2023-24 season.
As we prepare for the clash between the Mariners and the Red & Gold Brigade, here’s what to watch for:
The Stakes: Mohun Bagan SG is the favored team to clinch the 2023 Durand Cup and defend their Indian Super League title from the previous season. With a talented squad featuring a mix of foreign and domestic players, expectations are high among fans. Juan Ferrando faces immense pressure to deliver success, and winning this trophy would provide a significant boost for the upcoming season.
East Bengal FC, on the other hand, is eager to kick-start their revolution with a resounding victory in the 2023 Durand Cup. The club has made ambitious moves in the transfer market and secured the services of Carles Cuadrat. Although they enter the final as underdogs, they possess the firepower to secure their first major trophy of the 2023-24 season.
Team News: Mohun Bagan SG boasts a nearly full-strength squad for the final, while East Bengal FC will miss the services of Souvik Chakraborty due to suspension.
Probable Lineups:
Mohun Bagan SG (4-2-3-1):
- Vishal Kaith(GK)
- Asish Rai
- Anwar Ali
- Brendan Hamill
- Subhasish Bose
- Anirudh Thapa
- Sahal Abdul Samad
- Ashique Kuruniyan
- Dimitri Petratos
- Hugo Boumous
- Jason Cummings
East Bengal FC (4-2-3-1):
- Prabhsukhan Gill(GK)
- Nishu Kumar
- Lalchungnunga
- Jordan Elsey
- Mandar Rao Desai
- Jose Pardo
- Harmanjot Khabra
- Saul Crespo
- Nandhakumar Sekar
- Naorem Mahesh Singh
- Javier Siverio
Head to Head (Durand Cup):
- Total Matches Played: 21
- Mohun Bagan SG wins: 7
- East Bengal FC wins: 9
- Draws: 5
Players to Watch:
Jason Cummings (Mohun Bagan SG): Jason Cummings is the main offensive threat for Mohun Bagan SG, leading their forward line with expertise. With two goals already in the tournament, he’s hungry for more. His predatory instincts inside the box make him a formidable presence, and East Bengal FC must devise a strategy to contain him.
Naorem Mahesh Singh (East Bengal FC): Naorem Mahesh Singh is the driving force in East Bengal FC’s attack. Known for his pace and precise crossing ability, he creates constant threats on the flanks. His contribution was pivotal in the semi-final, and the 24-year-old is expected to keep MBSG defenders on their toes during the final.
