Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal: Three key battles that can decide outcome of Kolkata Derby in Super Cup

A win in the Kolkata Derby will decide who will advance to the semifinal of the AIFF Super Cup.

The 2025 Super Cup is set to play host to the Kolkata Derby as Mohun Bagan faces off against East Bengal in what should be a thrilling clash at the Fatorda Stadium, Goa, on Friday (31 October 2025). It’ll basically be like a final, with the winner of the match progressing to the knockout rounds and the other being eliminated.

The two Kolkata giants recently met in a hotly contested IFA Shield final, where Mohun Bagan were able to snatch a narrow win over the Red & Gold Brigade. East Bengal are now vying for revenge over their rivals, while the Mariners look to march on in their quest to win another major piece of silverware under Jose Molina.

Because of the desperation for victory for both sides, this upcoming Kolkata Derby should be a high-octane, action-packed clash. Every player will need to put in their best to be able to drive their side to a win.

However, there are certain crucial individuals for both teams who can be the major difference-makers in the game. As a result, some feisty battles should take place on the pitch between talented players, which can basically tip things onto one of the team’s favour. With that being said, here we look at the three key battles to watch in the Super Cup Kolkata Derby.

3. Lalangmawia Ralte vs Miguel Ferreira

The IFA Shield final between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal showcased many things, but a rather prominent thing it showcased was that the midfield battle can be the decisive factor in these two sides’ meeting. Whoever is able to control things in the middle of the park can help dictate the tempo of the match and basically play on the front foot.

That is why the midfield battle between Lalengmawia Ralte and Miguel Ferreira can be a particularly interesting one in the Super Cup Derby. Ferreira has been quite impressive in the Super Cup so far for the Red & Gold Brigade, scoring a wonder goal and helping his side dominate things in the midfield.

The Brazilian midfielder can be a robust driving force in the midfield, who loves carrying the ball into key areas and creating chances. However, he’ll face off against a hard-working, undeterred midfielder like Lalengmawia Ralte in the game. Apuia is almost impossible to press down, and he’s also crucial in winning the ball in crucial positions. That is why the battle between Miguel and Apuia should be an eye-catching one, as both midfielders aim to outwit each other and win the ball back in important positions to give their side an edge on the transitions.

2. Hamid Ahadad vs Tom Aldred

Hamid Ahadad was a thorn to deal with for the Mohun Bagan defenders in the recent IFA Shield final, as he scored a clever goal by getting past the Mariners’ backline.

He will now be itching to get his first goal of the 2025 Super Cup against Mohun Bagan, having an idea of how to outwit their defenders and be a pest in their backline.

Ahadad has already been impressive with his link-up play and off-the-ball movement in the Super Cup matches for East Bengal in the Super Cup, but his finishing touches have been missing.

He’ll look to rediscover that in the derby, as he’ll aim to outwit the defenders to get into more goal-scoring positions and put chances away efficiently. However, Tom Aldred will look to ruin the party for the Moroccan forward by putting an even tighter mark on him.

Aldred will be looking to maintain 100% concentration in tracking the movement of Ahadad and stopping him from getting a free run at the goal. Aldred’s already proven himself as someone who can mark players efficiently, which is why this battle should be an entertaining one.

Also Read: Mohun Bagan, East Bengal eye Super Cup semifinal spot in decisive Kolkata Derby

1. Jamie Maclaren vs Anwar Ali

Jamie Maclaren has literally been Mohun Bagan’s only goal-scorer in the 2025 Super Cup campaign so far, scoring both their goals in the competition. The Australian forward appears to have picked up his form after an impressive showing in the IFA Shield as well. Maclaren is clearly craving for more goals and scoring at a regular basis, and he recognises the worth of scoring in a Kolkata Derby.

However, the Australian striker will be facing a stern challenge against the gritty Anwar Ali, who is arguably the best defender in Indian football right now. Anwar boasts an admirable IQ level, being able to track the movement of strikers and neutralise their strong points really well.

The East Bengal defender has to be at his sharpest to frustrate Maclaren, being in the right positions to make crucial clearances and also winning duels against the Mohun Bagan ace. Maclaren, meanwhile, will need to be really unpredictable with his movement and overall approach in the game.

He’ll need to be smart in positioning himself in the perfect situations to outwit Ali and get at the end of chances. Unless Anwar is able to keep Maclaren under wraps, the Australian forward can definitely decide the derby and guide his side to a big win.

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