Durand Cup 2023: FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan | Combined XI

This will be FC Goa’s first meeting with Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup.

The second semi-final of the 132nd edition of the Durand Cup will see Indian Super League (ISL) heavyweights FC Goa and Mohun Bagan Super Giant clash horns on Thursday (31 August). Juan Ferrando will go up against his former side, knowing that a win can set up a mouth-watering Kolkata Derby final against East Bengal.

The journey to that game, however, will not be easy at all. The two ISL sides have performed almost equally well at the Durand Cup 2023, dominating games and producing thrilling performances. Both have benefitted from some excellent individual performances, with a few players standing out among the rest. With that being said, Khel Now draws up the combined XI between these two teams before their major clash.

Combined Playing XI

Goalkeeper: Vishal Kaith (Mohun Bagan SG)

Kaith has been reliable in between the goal for the Mariners, keeping a clean-sheet and making a number of key saves to hold down the fort in goal.

Right-Back: Leander D’Cunha (FC Goa)

A stalwart in the Durand Cup for the Gaurs, Leander has been a commanding and driving force down the right for his side, producing some commendable performances.

Centre-Back: Anwar Ali (Mohun Bagan SG)

Anwar has been a revelation for the Mariners since his arrival from FC Goa, being an absolute rock at the back and bullying a number of challenging attackers. He also showcased his goal-scoring prowess by netting an excellent header in the win over Mumbai City FC.

Centre-Back: Sandesh Jhingan (FC Goa)

Jhingan has settled in with ease at FC Goa, helping them keep multiple clean-sheets. He has also neutralized the threat of multiple menacing forwards, for example his impressive work against Chennaiyin FC’s Connor Shields in the quarter-final win.

Left-Back: Subhasish Bose (Mohun Bagan SG)

The Mohun Bagan captain has led his side from the back, being a reliable and commanding figure – be it as a left-back or a left-sided centre-back. Despite losing the Kolkata Derby, Bose has been impressive in the other games and was especially admirable against Mumbai City.

Centre-Midfield: Rowllin Borges (FC Goa)

Rowllin Borges has been a bright spark for the Gaurs in the Durand Cup, putting in efficient performances all through to take them to the semi-finals. Apart from helping them control games with his distribution ability, the midfielder has also scored two goals.

Centre-Midfield: Victor Rodriguez (FC Goa)

The summer signing has been an exciting addition to FC Goa, adding lots of creativity and a unique attacking threat to their side. He scored an impressive goal in the quarter-final win over Chennaiyin FC and appears to be thriving under Manolo Marquez.

Right-Wing: Manvir Singh (Mohun Bagan SG)

Manvir has been a delight to watch for the Mariners at the Durand Cup and is enjoying a prolific tournament. He has scored two goals for them, including an important one in the win over Mumbai City. He has also set up a few goals too! Manvir has added energy and creative threat through the right and has also worked hard defensively.

Left-Wing: Noah Sadaoui (FC Goa)

The Moroccan winger has been on fire in the Durand Cup. He’s the second-highest scorer with five goals in four games, being very clinical with his final product and a major reason behind his side’s success.

Centre-Forward: Jason Cummings (Mohun Bagan SG)

The record-signing for the Mariners has been a menace with his clever off-the-ball runs and dangerous presence in the final third. He scored against Mumbai and played a major role in their win in the quarter-final.

Centre-Forward: Carlos Martinez (FC Goa)

Martinez has enjoyed a brilliant Durand Cup campaign with Goa, scoring three goals in four games. That includes a stellar strike against Chennaiyin FC, with the Spaniard proving why he’ll be one to watch out for in the upcoming ISL campaign.

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