Mohun Bagan Face East Bengal in High-Stakes Durand Cup Final

Mohun Bagan and East Bengal are set to clash in a high-stakes Durand Cup final, with Kolkata's two biggest clubs chasing the historic trophy. Mohun Bagan enter the decider as 17-time champions seeking an 18th crown, while East Bengal, holding 16 titles, aim to draw level with their arch-rivals.

Sahal has been a standout performer for Mohun Bagan throughout the campaign, scoring the winning goal in the opening derby before netting a hat-trick against CISF Protectors to anchor head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis's attack. Forward Manvir Singh also recorded a hat-trick against South United FC, while goalkeeper Vishal Kaith delivered key penalty shootout saves in the semi-finals.

Mohun Bagan further boosted their lineup for the knockout stages by adding Brazilian midfielder Miguel Figueira, signed from East Bengal, and India international winger Lallianzuala Chhangte. Both featured from the bench in the semi-final win over NorthEast United FC.

East Bengal reached the final behind strong showings from captain Mohammed Basim Rashid, who struck the woodwork twice in the semi-final before converting the decisive shootout penalty. Goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Singh Gill also proved vital, stopping a penalty in normal time and another in the shootout against SC Delhi.

East Bengal head coach Habas has built the side around defensive discipline and counter-attacking pace through players like PV Vishnu and Rashid's set-piece delivery. Habas noted that the team playing with greater intelligence and emotional control over 90 minutes would secure the victory.

Dilmperis's Mohun Bagan side dominated the group stage with three wins, scoring 15 goals without conceding. Dilmperis emphasised that passion and winning the mental contest would be decisive in closing out the match in regular time.