Perhaps the most-awaited and iconic fixture in Indian football, the Kolkata derby is back for its second instalment of the ongoing I-League season on Sunday i.e. April 9. As the league reaches its critical stages, both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan are in contention for the I-League crown and will be looking to get the three points.
The last time the two teams met in the league in February, a goalless draw was the result as neither team managed to get on the scoresheet. However, this time, the stakes will be higher as both sides are behind first-placed Aizawl FC in the standings, who sit on 30 points.
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The Mariners sit on 26 points in third place but have a game in hand. They will come into the game with great confidence, having recorded two spectacular wins in their last two outings. On April 1, they defeated Bengaluru FC in fine fashion, recording a 3-0 win against the Blues at home.
Just three days later, the Green and Maroons overcame Bangladeshi side Abhani Ltd. by a 3-1 margin in the AFC Cup. It was a spectacular comeback victory, as goals from Jeje Lalpekhlua, Balwant Singh and the mercurial Sony Norde gave them the win after Jonathan Brown had opened the scoring for Abhani.
Also read: I-League 2017: 5 most memorable Kolkata derbies
However, they will miss two key players going into the derby. India international Pronay Halder was not included in the final squad and made his last appearance in February, while full-back Subhasish Bose also remains on the treatment table.
East Bengal currently stand at second place in the league table with 27 points, three behind the leaders. Trever Morgan’s side will be looking to arrest their slide, having lost their previous two games in the league.
On March 7, they lost at home to Goan side Churchill Brothers before following up the result with another loss away to newcomers Chennai City FC. Both games ended with a 2-1 margin.
After the international break, the Red and Gold played two friendly games against their U-18 side. The first game ended in a 2-2 draw but the senior side won 3-1 in the second, as Haitian star Wedson made a return from injury.
Start timing
The match will kick off in the evening at 7.05 PM
Live streaming
www.tensports.com
TV Telecast
Ten network
