ISL 2023-24: Renamed Mohun Bagan Super Giant face debutant Punjab FC to commence title defence

Punjab FC is the first club to get promoted from I-League to ISL

In the second match of the double header on Saturday, Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Punjab FC prepare to lock horns for the first time in the Indian Super League history. The game promises to be an exhilarating encounter for the Indian Football fans. 

Mohun Bagan Super Giant, one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in Indian football, has had a solid run in recent years. Their squad is filled with experienced players, including some international stalwarts. In the 2022-23 season, they finished as the winners in the ISL  and secured a place in the AFC Cup qualifying round. With a blend of youth and experience, Mohun Bagan is a force to be reckoned with.

On the other hand, Punjab FC has been steadily building a competitive team over the past few seasons. They managed to win the I-League last season and thus being the first side to get promoted in the ISL.

Stakes

For Mohun Bagan Super Giant, this season carries the weight of expectations and history.  The Kolkata outfit reportedly spent 70 crore INR in the summer and the expectations from the passionate fan base will be sky-high After winning ISL in the previous season, they will be eager to go a step further and clinch all the accolades they are competing for this season. The stakes are high for Mohun Bagan, and they will aim to continue their rich legacy by achieving glory in the ongoing season.

Punjab FC's journey from the I-League to the ISL is a significant step, and their primary objective will be to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the top-tier league. While immediate success is a desirable outcome, Punjab FC will also have one eye on the long-term sustainability and growth of their club. A strong showing in the ISL will not only solidify their position but also attract more fans from the region  and as well as onboarding the sponsors, ensuring a bright future for the club.

Players to Look Out For:

Mohun Bagan Super Giant - Dimi Petratos:

The Australian attacking midfielder is set to be a pivotal figure for Mohun Bagan SuperGiant again for this edition of the ISL. Petratos, known for his creativity, vision, and ability to score from range, Petratos can unlock stubborn defenses and provide crucial goals. His experience in top leagues, including the A-League, makes him a valuable asset for the Kolkata based side. 

Punjab FC - Luka Majcen:

Luka Majcen, the Slovenian striker, had a stellar season in the I-League, winning the golden boot as the league's top scorer and playing a key role in Punjab FC's promotion to the ISL. His ability to find the back of the net with precision and consistency makes him a threat to any defense. Majcen's partnership with fellow forward Wilmar Gil will be crucial in Punjab FC's quest to establish themselves in the ISL. 

Team News

Aashique Kuruniyan and Sumit Rathi are unavailable for Mohun Bagan while Amarjit Kiyam and Samuel James are unavailable for Punjab FC

Predicted XI

Mohun Bagan SG: Kaith ; Rai, Anwar, Yuste, Shubhashish; Liston, Thapa, Sahal, Boumous, Petratos, Cummings

Punjab FC: Chemjong; Lungdim, Prabhu, Chatziisaias, Salah; Juan Mera, Shabong, Talal, Augustine; Prasanth K, Luka Majcen

Did You Know

• Luka Majcen is only the third player to play all three divisions in the Indian Football pyramid.
• Punjab FC are the first side to be promoted to ISL from the I-League.

Telecast Details

The Match between Mohun Bagan and Punjab FC is set to kickoff at 8pm from the iconic VYBK stadium. The match will be telecasted live on Sports18, DD Bangla in Bengali and other platforms in vernacular languages. The game will be streamed on Jio Cinema in English