Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal 2025: Match Preview, Team News and Key Players
The Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal 2025 Kolkata Derby is set to ignite passions once again in one of Asia’s most historic football rivalries. Known for its electrifying atmosphere, the Derby goes beyond sport, representing tradition, pride, and fan loyalty. With both teams aiming for dominance this season, the clash promises high intensity, unforgettable moments, and drama that will keep supporters on the edge of their seats.
Match Overview
Date, Time, and Venue
The Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal 2025 clash will take place on February 9, 2025, at the Salt Lake Stadium (Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan) in Kolkata. Known for its capacity to hold over 80,000 passionate fans, this venue has been the heart of Indian football for decades. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST, with the entire footballing nation eagerly awaiting the spectacle, much like the excitement generated on Mostbet Sri Lanka.
Competition and Stage of the Fixture
This Derby is part of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025 season, marking one of the most awaited fixtures in the calendar. Beyond three points in the standings, the clash carries symbolic weight. For Mohun Bagan, it is about asserting dominance as one of India’s strongest clubs. For East Bengal, it’s an opportunity to prove resurgence and reclaim bragging rights on the grandest domestic stage.
Importance of the Kolkata Derby for Fans and Teams
The Kolkata Derby is more than a match—it’s a cultural event that unites and divides the city of Kolkata. For fans, victory means pride, identity, and bragging rights that last until the next clash. For players and coaches, it is a test of nerve and passion, with careers often defined by performances in this iconic rivalry. The stakes are always higher, and in 2025, both teams come prepared to etch another chapter in Derby history.
Team News and Probable Lineups
Mohun Bagan Squad Updates and Key Players
Mohun Bagan enter the Derby with a strong squad featuring experience and international talent. Their attack is led by proven scorers, while the midfield provides creativity and stability, ensuring they remain dangerous in open play and decisive moments like a Penalty Shootout.
Key Players:
- Dimitri Petratos – lethal forward with consistent goalscoring.
- Hugo Boumous – playmaker who controls tempo and creates chances.
- Anwar Ali – dependable central defender with aerial strength.
- Liston Colaco – pacey winger capable of breaking defences.
- Subhasish Bose – solid full-back, vital for both defence and overlapping runs.
East Bengal Squad Updates and Star Performers
East Bengal will rely on their mix of experienced campaigners and dynamic foreign signings to challenge their arch-rivals. Their midfield resilience and ability to strike on the counter are key assets.
Star Performers:
- Cleiton Silva – captain and reliable finisher with big-match mentality.
- Nandhakumar Sekar – creative winger with flair and pace.
- Saul Crespo – midfield engine with passing range and tackling ability.
- Mahesh Singh – consistent performer in attack, crucial for wing play.
- Lalchungnunga – young defender who has impressed with maturity.
Predicted Starting XIs and Formations
| Mohun Bagan (4-2-3-1) | East Bengal (4-3-3) |
| Vishal Kaith (GK) | Kamaljit Singh (GK) |
| Subhasish Bose | Lalchungnunga |
| Anwar Ali | Lalram Chullova |
| Brendan Hamill | Hijazi Maher |
| Ashique Kuruniyan | Mandar Rao Dessai |
| Deepak Tangri | Saul Crespo |
| Carl McHugh | Jordan Elsey |
| Hugo Boumous | Nandhakumar Sekar |
| Liston Colaco | Mahesh Singh |
| Manvir Singh | Borja Herrera |
| Dimitri Petratos (C) | Cleiton Silva (C) |
Both managers are expected to adopt aggressive tactics, with Mohun Bagan relying on ball possession while East Bengal aim to strike on quick transitions, a clash of styles that mirrors the intensity of tournaments like the game.
Key Players to Watch
Mohun Bagan’s Offensive Threats
Mohun Bagan’s attacking strength makes them one of the most feared sides in the ISL. Their forwards and creative midfielders have the ability to turn games within moments.
Key Threats:
- Dimitri Petratos – clinical finisher, especially dangerous inside the box.
- Hugo Boumous – creative midfielder, master at unlocking tight defences.
- Liston Colaco – explosive winger, adds pace and unpredictability in wide areas.
- Manvir Singh – versatile forward, effective both as a striker and wide attacker.
East Bengal’s Impact Players
East Bengal rely on their attacking leaders and midfielders to unsettle opposition defences. Their strength lies in combining experience with youthful energy.
Impact Players:
- Cleiton Silva – captain and talisman, consistent goal-scorer in big matches.
- Nandhakumar Sekar – winger with flair, known for quick runs and assists.
- Saul Crespo – midfield general, provides balance between defence and attack.
- Mahesh Singh – reliable in link-up play, capable of decisive passes.
Emerging Talents Who Could Shine
| Player | Club | Strengths |
| Kiyan Nassiri | Mohun Bagan | Young striker with sharp finishing instincts. |
| Lalrinliana Hnamte | East Bengal | Energetic midfielder, strong in pressing. |
| Suhail Ahmad Bhat | Mohun Bagan | Promising forward, adds fresh attacking options. |
| Sayan Banerjee | East Bengal | Confident youngster, good ball control under pressure. |
These rising stars may not always start, but they have the potential to change the game when given opportunities, making them crucial factors in this high-pressure Derby.
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
Past Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal Matches
The Kolkata Derby has produced countless thrilling encounters. In recent years, Mohun Bagan have held a slight edge, winning more ISL clashes, though East Bengal continue to remain fierce challengers.
Derby Highlights (last 5 meetings):
- 2024 ISL: Mohun Bagan 2–0 East Bengal
- 2024 Durand Cup: East Bengal 1–1 Mohun Bagan
- 2023 ISL: Mohun Bagan 3–1 East Bengal
- 2023 ISL: East Bengal 0–2 Mohun Bagan
- 2022 ISL: Mohun Bagan 2–1 East Bengal
Current Form of Both Clubs in the League
Both teams enter this Derby in competitive form, though Mohun Bagan’s consistency has been slightly better this season.
| Team | Last 5 League Matches | Form |
| Mohun Bagan | W – W – D – W – L | Strong overall |
| East Bengal | D – W – L – W – D | Mixed results |
- Mohun Bagan: Known for strong defence and counter-attacks, they remain top contenders in the league table.
- East Bengal: Improving under new management, but still searching for stability and consistency.
Memorable Moments in Kolkata Derby History
The Derby is more than a match—it’s an emotional saga that has delivered unforgettable moments over the decades.
Iconic Memories:
- 1975 IFA Shield Final – Mohun Bagan defeated East Bengal 5–0, one of the most famous Derby results.
- 1997 Federation Cup – Baichung Bhutia scored a memorable hat-trick for East Bengal.
- 2019 CFL Clash – East Bengal’s dramatic late win reignited their fanbase’s passion.
- First ISL Derby (2020) – Mohun Bagan triumphed 2–0, starting a new chapter in the rivalry.
These moments remind fans why the Kolkata Derby remains one of the most historic football rivalries in Asia.
Match Predictions and Expectations
Likely Scorelines and Game-Changing Scenarios
The Derby is expected to be tight, with both sides fielding strong lineups. Mohun Bagan’s attacking firepower may give them an edge, but East Bengal’s counter-attacking style keeps the contest unpredictable.
| Scenario | Predicted Scoreline | Key Factors |
| Mohun Bagan dominate possession | Mohun Bagan 2–1 East Bengal | Petratos & Boumous creating chances. |
| East Bengal strike on counters | Mohun Bagan 1–2 East Bengal | Silva and Sekar exploiting defensive gaps. |
| Defensive battle | Mohun Bagan 0–0 East Bengal | Strong backlines and goalkeeping performances. |
Expert Opinions and Fan Expectations
Football experts suggest Mohun Bagan hold a narrow advantage due to squad depth and recent Derby form. However, they also note East Bengal’s determination and unpredictable attack could spring a surprise.
Expert Notes:
- Mohun Bagan’s midfield creativity may dictate the pace.
- East Bengal’s wingers could decide the game in wide areas.
- Set-pieces are expected to be a crucial factor for both teams.
Among fans, emotions are running high—Mohun Bagan supporters anticipate another statement win, while East Bengal’s faithful believe this is their moment to reclaim bragging rights.
What to Watch During This Exciting Clash
Spectators can expect intensity from the very first whistle. Key battles to follow include:
- Petratos vs East Bengal Defence – Can they stop his goalscoring run?
- Silva vs Anwar Ali – A duel of striker against defender.
- Midfield Creativity – Boumous and Crespo competing to control possession.
- Young Talents – Players like Kiyan Nassiri or Mahesh Singh could turn into surprise heroes.
The 2025 Kolkata Derby promises drama, passion, and a footballing spectacle worthy of its legendary status.
