Its BLOCKBUSTER SATURDAY as Mohun Bagan takes on the Mohammedan SC on 28th Feb'26, at the iconic Saltlake Stadium
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It's super Saturday in Kolkata as the City of Joy braces for its first legacy derby of the season. The mighty Mariners take on the majestic Mohammedan SC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan, Saltlake on the 28th of February, 2026.
The defending Double Champions are on a roll in the ISL as they have won both of their opening matches with 2-0 margins each. Though Bagan had a shaky start in their first match against Kerala, their performance against Chennaiyin FC was much more polished and well-refined. The progression is evident and the team chemistry has significantly improved which is a big positive sign for the Green and Maroon brigade.
The same however, cannot be said for Mohammedan SC. Having lost both of their opening matches, the 2023-24 I-league champions have struggled to find momentum early in the competition. After finishing at the bottom of the table last season, the 2025-2026 season was supposed to be an opportunity for redemption for the Kolkata Giants. But so far, things have not gone in favour of the Black-and-Whites as they head to this encounter as clear underdogs.
-:Probable Lineups:-
Mohun Bagan (4-2-3-1):Kaith(GK), Subhasish(c)-Alberto-Mehtab-Tekchem, Thapa-Apuia, Petratos-Robson-Liston, Maclaren Coach: Sergio Lobera-:Tactical Analysis:-
Although the gap between the two teams appears significant at the current moment, it will not be a cakewalk for the defending Champions as derbies are always unpredictable. Lobera's side is all pumped up for the clash after a confident start to the tournament. Thapa and Apuia have been the pillars for the Mariner's midfield, dictating the tempo and providing stability. The Mariners would like to continue their attacking style of play with Liston and Robson roaming the flanks with additional support from full backs, Captain Subhasish Bose and new signing, Tekcham Abhishek Singh. Dimi is likely to continue to play as a second striker with a more centralized role while Macca makes the necessary runs in danger areas searching for goals. Bagan have maintained a very high line in their previous two games which is a two-edged sword in most cases but, Mehtab and Alberto have given us no scope for scrutiny as the duo along with Vishal have maintained a clean sheet in both the games.Mohammedan, on the other hand, have not been clinical at all. They are yet to score a single goal in the tournament and have already conceded three. The backline of Hira, Gaurav, Sajad and Meitei looks very solid on paper but they have not been able to perform as per their calibre. But on important matches against legacy opponents like Mohun Bagan, they can be solid as a rock. Their strikers have also fumbled big time despite getting some chances which means that the Champions need to be careful and alert to face this Indian side. We all know what players like Fanai and Adison can do. Overall, Mehrajuddin Wadoo's style of play needs to be on point both tactically and technically to beat a force like Mohun Bagan. They have the talent, but do they have the spirit to turn the tides? Only time will tell.
-:Players to Watch Out For:-
Anirudh Thapa: One of the backbones of the Mariners' midfield along with Apuia. The Pahadi lad from Dehradun has been a vital element for Bagan. His passing is impeccable, has great snatching ability and defensive capability as well. His defence splitting passes, crucial interceptions and ball holding capabilities have made him one of the best midfielders in the country. And in the form that he is in, all eyes on him to witness on a stellar performance in the derby.Robson Robinho: The Brazilian magician has given a good performance in the previous match against CFC. Being the clear favourites in the mini-derby, he is expected to score his first goal for the Mariners and introduce proper Ginga to the fans of Indian football.
Apuia: The other pillar of the Bagan midfield, the young technically gifted lad from Mizoram has proven his worth match after match. A maestro in the midfield known for his in-game I.Q. and work rate, he is the playmaker for Bagan. Currently, in the form of his life, Apuia would definitely want to keep his mark on derby day. Fanai: Another exciting prodigy from Mizoram,the 21-year-old is known for his speed and knack for goals. Though his performance this season is not at par with his potential, he would definitely want to prove himself in the derby against the best team in the ISL.
Mahitosh: This midfielder of MDSC has caught the attention of many this season. He might disrupt Bagan’s attacking dominance and pose problems for the backline.
Last 6 Matches:
With Mohun Bagan as the clear favourites, it is going to be an exciting mini-derby to watch! A win in this match will lift Bagan all the way to the top of the table.
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