Mohun Bagan Dominate In Kolkata Derby With 3-1 Win, Secure Playoff Berth In ISL 2023-24
Mohun Bagan delivered one of their best displays of the season as they dominated their arch-rivals with a commanding 3-1 victory in the Indian Super League return leg clash at the Salt Lake Stadium.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant delivered an outstanding performance in their Indian Super League (ISL) return leg match against arch-rivals East Bengal FC, securing a convincing 3-1 victory at the Salt Lake Stadium on March 10 (Sunday). With this victory, Mohun Bagan surged ahead of Mumbai City to claim the top spot in the standings, thanks to a superior goal difference. Additionally, this win secured their place in the playoff spot.
Despite Cleiton Silva's missed penalty in the 14th minute, Mohun Bagan dominated the game, with goals from Jason Cummings (27th minute), Liston Colaco (36th minute) and Dimitri Petratos (45+3' penalty) giving them a comfortable 3-0 lead at halftime. Although Saul Crespo scored East Bengal's first goal in the 53rd minute, Mohun Bagan quickly reasserted their dominance to maintain the 3-1 scoreline with no further setbacks.
Both teams are currently tied with 36 points each, but Mohun Bagan have a match in hand, making them strong contenders for the top spot and the Shield. Unfortunately, East Bengal's playoff hopes have been dashed with this loss.
Mohun Bagan’s Unassailable Lead In First-Half
In the 8th minute, Mohun Bagan had an early opportunity when Petratos delivered a cross to Cummings, who was unmarked on the left. However, his header missed the target. A turning point occurred in the 13th minute when Vishal Kaith, the Mohun Bagan goalkeeper, made a spectacular save from a penalty awarded to East Bengal after Cleiton was fouled by Kaith.
Cummings then unexpectedly found himself in a prime position to score in the 27th minute, capitalising on a rebound off the East Bengal goalkeeper. The goal was set up by Joni Kauko's midfield play, with Sahal also contributing to the buildup.
Within 10 minutes, Colaco increased Mohun Bagan's lead with a similar scenario, as the ball bounced back from the post following a Petratos shot. The Australian then assisted an unmarked Colaco on the far post, who scored to make it 2-0.
In injury time of the first half, Sahal was fouled by Nandha Kumar, resulting in another penalty for Mohun Bagan. This time, Petratos successfully converted the penalty to give his team a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime.
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