Three Mohun Bagan players who can be difference makers against East Bengal in ISL

Mohun Bagan will face their arch-rivals East Bengal in an exciting ISL clash.

Mohun Bagan will be eager to do the league double over East Bengal in their upcoming Kolkata Derby in the Indian Super League (ISL) on Saturday (11 January).

The Mariners can give a major boost to their ISL league shield-winning dreams by getting a big win over their arch-rivals and, more importantly, give the ultimate bragging rights to their supporters by winning this clash.

Even though East Bengal might be well outside the ISL top-six place, Jose Molina will ensure they do not take this challenge lightly at all. The Red & Gold Brigade have recovered strongly under Oscar Bruzon, becoming a compact and unpredictable threat. That is why Mohun Bagan will need to be at their most efficient to oust their rivals in the ‘Boro Khela’.

Jose Molina will need every player to give their 100%, but only certain players can be genuine difference makers in the match. Fortunately for the Mariners, some players are flying high on confidence and can help give them the edge over East Bengal. Here are three Mohun Bagan players who can be genuine difference-makers against the Torchbearers.

3. Lalengmawia Ralte

Lalengmawia Ralte was specifically rested in Mohun Bagan’s previous game against Hyderabad FC to ensure he’s well-rested for the derby. The 24-year-old has been a prolific addition to Mohun Bagan’s midfield this season, adding some much-needed aggression and intelligence to their core. Apuia ranks among the most efficient tacklers in the ISL this season, and he will play a decisive role in their midfield line.

The 24-year-old will need to be proactive and alert in midfield, in which he’ll look to cut East Bengal’s movement down the central areas and use his clever game-reading ability to regain possession at regular intervals. Apuia’s press-resistant style will be crucial to help his side bypass East Bengal’s high press methods and help move the ball forward quicker into the final third.

2. Manvir Singh

Manvir Singh has been able to unlock his strongest assets in Jose Molina’s system this season for Mohun Bagan and is raring to torment East Bengal again in a derby. He played a key role in helping his side defeat their rivals in the derby earlier this season, getting an assist in the 2-0 win. Manvir can play a key role in dictating how his side can trouble East Bengal in their half in the upcoming derby.

With the Torchbearers being without a natural left-back, Manvir will look to be a pest on the right wing with his darting forward and utilizing his speed as well as physicality in the wide areas. He’ll need to be efficient with his final product, but if able to nail his final third passes and shots on goal, the India international can help his side take the game away from East Bengal.

1. Greg Stewart

Greg Stewart has proven to be a brilliant signing for Mohun Bagan, with his creative brilliance adding a new dimension to the Marienrs’ attacking style. Fortunately for them, the 34-year-old should be fully fit for the Kolkata Derby.

Stewart can be someone who plays a significant role in deciding how the game turns out to be. Greg is currently topping the assists charts in the ISL with five assists in nine ISL games so far, as he possesses that genius ability to carve out chances out of nothing.

Stewart will play a crucial role in destabilizing East Bengal’s stubborn defensive line and forcing the defenders into mistakes. He’ll need to nail his passes, either from open-play situations or set-piece delivery, to elevate Mohun Bagan’s chances of creating a plethora of chances and running riot over the East Bengal backline.

If able to hit his perfect rhythm, Stewart can help his side produce a highly entertaining display in the Kolkata derby and unleash a range of fireworks on the pitch.

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