Mohun Bagan SG ease past Mohammedan SC in season’s first Kolkata derby

Mohun Bagan Super Giant secured a convincing 3-0 victory over local rivals Mohammedan Sporting Club in the season’s first Kolkata derby of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25. The match, held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, saw the reigning champions assert their dominance with a stellar first-half performance.Mohun Bagan SG ease past Mohammedan SC in season’s first Kolkata derby

The Mariners wasted no time in stamping their authority on the game, with Jamie Maclaren opening the scoring early on. Mohun Bagan’s attacking quartet, comprising Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, Maclaren, and Greg Stewart, displayed impressive fluidity throughout the match, constantly pressuring Mohammedan’s defense.

Subhasish Bose doubled Mohun Bagan’s lead in the 31st minute with a powerful header from Greg Stewart’s precise free-kick. Stewart then turned from provider to scorer just five minutes later, capitalizing on a midfield turnover to drive forward and unleash a vicious shot into the bottom left corner.

The second half saw Mohammedan Sporting’s coach, Andrey Chernyshov, make significant changes in an attempt to disrupt Mohun Bagan’s rhythm. Despite introducing Cesar Manzoki, Bikash Singh, and Lalrinfela Khiangte to inject energy into their attack, Mohammedan struggled to match their opponents’ intensity.

While Mohun Bagan continued to create chances, with Stewart, Manvir, and Liston all coming close to extending the lead, they were unable to add to their tally. Mohammedan showed brief moments of promise but were ultimately outclassed on the night.

Greg Stewart emerged as the key performer, contributing a goal and two assists while orchestrating play from midfield. The Scottish midfielder created four chances and completed 11 of his 14 attempted passes, showcasing his importance to Mohun Bagan’s attacking prowess.

As the league heads into an international break, both teams will look ahead to their next fixtures. Mohun Bagan Super Giant is set to face arch-rivals East Bengal in another highly anticipated derby on October 19, while Mohammedan Sporting will host Kerala Blasters on October 20.