Juan Ferrando dedicates Kolkata Derby win to ATKMB fans

The Mariners rode on a hat-trick from young Kiyan Nassiri to clinch the Kolkata Derby.

ATK Mohun Bagan picked up a thrilling win in the Kolkata Derby, coming back from behind to defeat SC East Bengal 3-1 on Saturday. Juan Ferrando's side fell behind in the 56th minute, when Darren Sidoel’s effort was deflected into the back of the net.

However, substitute Kiyan Nassiri – the son of East Bengal legend Jamshed Nassiri – produced an amazing performance. He scored a hat-trick in the last 30 minutes, etching his name into the history books and helping his side move into the top four of the Indian Super League.

Kiyan Nassiri's impact

Juan Ferrando was delighted by what he saw from Nassiri and spoke about his impact, saying, “I know his history! I’m happy for Kiyan because he worked hard in training, he’s improving a lot in training sessions.

"When the game was in a difficult moment, we used Kiyan as a false no. 9 and of course, I’m very happy for him. He’s a young player and has an amazing game. I’m very happy.”

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Victory is for fans

When asked about whom he dedicates the Kolkata Derby win to, Ferrando said, “Of course, it’s 100% for the fans. They wrote a lot of messages for this game, there were a lot of emotions involved. I’m happy because tonight they’re happy for these three points.”

David Williams' performance

Ferrando isn’t too worried about David Williams missing a key penalty and said on that, “I think in these moments it’s necessary to support David. He missed a penalty, but he helped a lot in the game. He was incredible with his pressing, creating opportunities with the second ball.

"Not only today, but also against Hyderabad, against Odisha. Of course, everyone wants to do the best in penalties, but I’ll continue working and supporting him.”

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Working on transitions

Liston Colaco’s slight error played a part in East Bengal’s goal and when asked about how much he needs to improve in that aspect, Ferrando said, “All the team are working hard. I’m working with Manvir (Singh) and Liston, but we need to improve with our transitions in defence. We need to keep the ball and we need to attack the spaces.

“It’s very important to be ready for the defensive transitions. I think the team are understanding these details step-by-step and play well. The most important for me is when they’re fresh. In the first half, the team didn’t look fresh because it’s the same with all the clubs. They’re in the rooms all the time, training outside once and it’s difficult to work in these situations,” he further added.

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Getting back in top four

Finally, Ferrando spoke on his feelings after getting back into the ISL top four, saying, “Today is the birthday of our owner. I think he’s happy tonight!

"For me, it’s important because we have nine games in front of us. The ones against Mumbai and Hyderabad will be important and this win will be important for the confidence of the players.”

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