East Bengal predicted lineup for Mohun Bagan clash in ISL 2024-25 Kolkata Derby

The Red & Gold Brigade are still chasing their first ISL derby win against the Mariners.

It’s that time of the year again when Kolkata’s most storied clubs are set to lock horns in the first derby of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) on 19 October (Saturday), 2024. The match is always more than just a football game – it’s a battle for bragging rights, pride, and history between two of India’s oldest and most esteemed football clubs.

East Bengal FC, who have not gotten off to a very good start to their season, will look around to turn their disappointments with a win over heavy-weights Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the much anticipated Kolkata derby. Under the guidance of the interim coach, Bino George, the Torchbearers are expected to field a strong side despite some notable injury concerns ahead of the derby.

Meanwhile, the Mariners will be aiming not only for a win to stay ahead in the ISL standings but also to increase their lead in the head-to-head tally, which has seen them maintain a significant edge in recent years. So, Bino George’s men will need to be at their best to outwit a strong Mohun Bagan side.

With key players like Madih Talal, Dimitrios Diamantakos, and Anwar Ali in their ranks, East Bengal has all the ingredients to stage a thrilling contest in one of the most awaited matches of the ISL season.

Here’s a look at East Bengal’s predicted lineup and formation for the much-anticipated Kolkata Derby.

Formation: 4-3-3

Bino George is known for his preference for a solid defensive line with an aggressive counter-attacking setup, and will likely employ a 4-3-3 formation. This formation will give East Bengal the stable defence they need to handle a robust Mohun Bagan attack while letting them attack quickly, especially through the wings.

Debjit Majumder (Goalkeeper)

East Bengal’s first-choice goalkeeper, Prabhsukhan Singh Gill, might be dropped, keeping in mind the high tempo of the derby, as Gill didn’t get the expected start to this season.

Debjit Majumder has shown his composure and excellent shot-stopping abilities in many previous derbies so, his presence under the bar is expected. It will be crucial for the Red & Gold Brigade to have him step up as the last line of defence, especially against the lethal attackers of Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Mohammad Rakip (Right back)

The tried and tested Mohammad Rakip will be a dependable figure in East Bengal’s defence for the derby. Rakip is known for being versatile and quick and will be very important in stopping Mohun Bagan’s left-wing attack while also helping East Bengal build up from the back during counterattacks.

Anwar Ali (Centre-back)

Despite much anticipation, Anwar Ali is free to start after his court hearing was moved to next week. Therefore, without a doubt, Ali is the main inclusion in defence, making his Kolkata Derby debut for the Torchbearers against his former club.

His aerial presence and ability to play out from the back will be a huge asset. Alongside him will be the dependable Hector Yuste, who will be crucial in marshaling the backline and making timely interceptions.

ALSO READ: Looking back at past Kolkata derbies in ISL era

Hector Yuste (Centre-back)

Hector Yuste will also be playing against his former club, donning the Red and Gold jersey, and playing a crucial part in their back four. In the last few games, Yuste performed admirably and gained his position in the starting lineup, pipping Hijazi Maher to the spot.

The ragtag Spaniard will also be an asset for East Bengal and Bino George to consider during set-pieces because of his height and agility.

Provat Lakra (Left back)

Provat Lakra, with his pace and crossing ability, will provide some much-needed width down the left flank. His attacking forays and defensive solidity will be important in stretching Mohun Bagan’s defense, while also covering for counter-attacks.

Lakra will need to bring out his best to stop the Mariners’ attackers from getting close in order to prove his worth in the Kolkata derby.

Souvik Chakrabarti (Central midfielder)

Souvik Chakrabarti has always been the face of East Bengal when it comes to the Kolkata derby. The local boy has proven his worth and has shown why he is one of the most deserving players to don the iconic red and gold jersey.

Souvik will bring energy to the midfield and aim to obstruct attackers from creating chances through the middle. He will also be instrumental in helping his side transition from defense to attack, using his dribbling and playmaking abilities to create opportunities for the forwards.

Jeakson Singh (Central midfielder)

Jeakson Singh’s ability to make late runs into the box and contribute defensively will be key for East Bengal. He will provide a box-to-box presence, helping East Bengal win midfield duels while offering an extra option going forward. Jeakson is also strong defensively, so Bino George can also expect an extra layer of protection from him in the middle of the park.

Saul Crespo (Central midfielder)

Saul Crespo will be tasked with defending and preventing Mohun Bagan players from attacking freely. For him to prevail in combat against the Mariners’ midfielders, however, he will need to maintain his composure with the ball throughout the game. He will also be expected to dictate the tempo and create space for himself and his teammates to operate.

Madih Talal (Right winger)

The prolific Madih Talal will easily be East Bengal’s main attacking threat. With his ability to cut inside, shoot from distance, and finish with precision, Talal will be the player Mohun Bagan’s defense will have to keep a close eye on if they want to take three points from the Kolkata derby.

ALSO READ: East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan: Three key battles that could decide ISL 2024-25 Kolkata Derby

Nandhakumar Sekar (Left winger)

Nandhakumar has had fortune favour him quite graciously in the Kolkata derby as his strike has previously been the difference between the two sides. So, despite a sloppy start to this season, Nandha will be a player to watch out for because of his speed and trickery on the ball.

His ability to take on defenders and deliver dangerous crosses makes him a potent weapon down the left flank for the Torchbearers.

Dimitrios Diamantakos (Striker)

Dimitrios Diamantakos is expected to spearhead the attack if he starts as he is returning from an injury. He was seen training with the team, so he might start on the bench but get involved later.

Cleiton looked like a shadow of his former self in the Red & Gold Brigade’s loss at Jamshedpur, so Diamantakos will be expected to sharpen the attack when he returns.

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