The Kolkata derby in the Indian Super League (ISL) on Sunday evening witnessed a dominant performance by Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who outplayed East Bengal 3-1 to secure a spot in the play-offs.
Mohun Bagan’s victory was orchestrated by a scintillating first-half display, with Jason Cummings, Liston Colaco, and Dimitri Petratos finding the back of the net. East Bengal’s only goal came from Saul Crespo in the second half.
The match started with a penalty awarded to Mohun Bagan in the 13th minute, but East Bengal goalkeeper Vishal Kaith made a crucial save to deny Cleiton Silva. However, Mohun Bagan’s relentless pressure paid off as Cummings tapped in a rebound from Prabhsukhan Gill’s parry in the 27th minute.
Colaco doubled the lead ten minutes later with a simple finish after a defensive lapse by East Bengal. Petratos then extended the advantage just before half-time with a powerful penalty kick, taking his tally for the season to eight goals.
East Bengal showed more urgency in the second half, but Kaith continued to be a formidable presence in goal, denying Silva on multiple occasions. The Mariners also missed a golden opportunity to reduce the deficit when Nandhakumar Sekar’s pass was overhit, preventing Silva from getting a clear shot on goal.
Despite East Bengal’s efforts, Mohun Bagan maintained their composure and controlled the tempo of the game. Petratos’s right-footed strike in the 45th minute sealed the victory for the Mariners, who now sit atop the ISL standings with 36 points.
The match was also notable for the presence of India head coach Igor Stimac, who witnessed the impressive performances of Mohun Bagan’s Sahal Abdul Samad and Petratos.
