East Bengal coach Biswajit Bhattacharya expects a good encounter in Kolkata Derby

East Bengal head into this game unbeaten while Mohun Bagan have been struggling recently

The Kolkata derby has always proved to be a lip-smacking encounter for football fans around the country. However, the form of both teams coming into the fixture couldn't be more different.

I-league champions Mohun Bagan have been struggling in the Kolkata League so far, having secured just 11 points from six games. On the other hand, East Bengal have seen a resurgence of sorts under new coach Biswajit Bhattacharya, remaining unbeaten in the league so far.

The Mariners currently sit in the fifth position, while the red and gold brigade are topping the table with 22 points. That being said, Bhattacharya had some tentativeness regarding the new ground layout, "Since the Salt Lake stadium has reconverted to grass, we would have ideally liked some practice time on it. However, since we did not get permission from the authorities to do so, we don't have a problem."

He added, "The pitch looks in good condition and we are expecting a good encounter."

Mohun Bagan gaffer Sanjoy Sen seemed critical about the fan support and urged both sets of fans not indulge in violence. He said, "Supporters of both clubs should come as the reigning I-league champions and an in-form East Bengal are playing. But, it is a request from our side that they don't repeat what happened two years ago. We don't want a repeat of the Syed Rahim Nabi incident. At the end of the day, it's a sport, should be played in sportsmanship."

One player who will be facing his old club in tomorrow's encounter will be Mohun Bagan striker, Dudu Omagbemi. The 30-year old, "Firstly, I'm really excited to be back in Kolkata and play against my former club. Both teams are in a good shape, the ground is in good shape, we need to go out there and put on a good show."

He added, "I am really enjoying my new partnership with young striker Azharuddin. He is one of the best players in India right now."

The crowd turnout expected by the India Football Association (IFA) is said to be massive. Secretary, Utpal Ganguli said, "We are expecting close to 75,000 people tomorrow and the stadium will be full capacity."