The iconic Kolkata Derby reignites on October 31, 2025, as Mohun Bagan Super Giant faces arch-rivals East Bengal FC in a high-stakes Group A clash of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST, marking the third senior-team encounter between the two sides this season and the fifth overall when counting youth fixtures. Both clubs enter the fray level on four points after two matches each, with a win guaranteeing the victor a semifinal berth in the 16-team tournament, where group toppers advance to the knockout stages. The outcome could hinge on fine margins, as a draw favours East Bengal provided Dempo SC does not overhaul Chennaiyin FC by a massive margin in their parallel fixture.
Mohun Bagan, coached by Spaniard Jose Molina, began their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC—thanks to goals from Jamie Maclaren—before settling for a goalless draw against Dempo SC. East Bengal, under Oscar Bruzon, mirrored the start with a 2-2 stalemate versus Dempo, followed by a commanding 4-0 rout of Chennaiyin, showcasing their attacking prowess.
The recent IFA Shield final on October 18, where Mohun Bagan triumphed 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, adds fresh bitterness, with East Bengal dominating regulation and extra time yet falling short due to goalkeeper Vishal Kaith's heroics. Bruzon has dismissed any draw strategy, insisting his side will attack relentlessly to avoid Mohun Bagan's counter-threat.
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Key battles could define the derby, including Maclaren's duel with East Bengal's defence after his brace against Chennaiyin, and the visitors' Iranian forward Sayan Thapa Ahadad seeking his first Super Cup goal against Mohun Bagan's backline. East Bengal's midfield maestro Naorem Mahesh Singh will test Mohun Bagan's flanks, while the hosts rely on a fully fit squad, including the in-form Australian striker. Molina, however, voiced frustration over the broader uncertainty in Indian football amid ongoing AIFF-FSDL disputes, which have delayed the ISL season and left clubs in limbo. Despite this, both teams boast full-strength lineups, with no major injuries reported.
One of Asia's fiercest rivalries, dating back to 1925, sees East Bengal leading historically with 144 wins to Mohun Bagan's 134 across 406 meetings, including 128 draws. This Super Cup edition, the first major domestic tournament of the 2025-26 season amid a top-flight void, underscores the derby's role as Indian football's enduring pulse—drawing packed crowds, flares, and fervent support even in exile from Kolkata. Fans can catch the action live on the Star Sports Network or stream it via the JioHotstar app and website, with the Super Cup winner securing an AFC Champions League Two playoff spot for 2026-27.
As the torchbearers of club football in a transitional year, this clash promises the passion and unpredictability that define the Green-Maroon versus Red-Gold saga.
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