Mohun Bagan — Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) continued their winning run in the Calcutta Football League (CFL) 2025 with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Kalighat Milan Sangha, giving their supporters another reason to celebrate ahead of the much-anticipated Kolkata Derby. The rain-soaked afternoon at Rabindra Sarobar Stadium turned into a thrilling contest marked by tactical adjustments, individual brilliance, and strong crowd energy.
Mohun Bagan: Match Summary
The match began with a high tempo, as Kalighat MS showed early ambition, pressing Mohun Bagan’s defenders and controlling possession in the first 20 minutes. However, Bagan absorbed the pressure and responded with aggressive wing play and quick passing transitions. The breakthrough came midway through the second half when Bagan’s striker capitalized on a loose ball from a corner to slot in the opener.
Kalighat responded ten minutes later with a swift counterattack that split Bagan’s defensive line, leveling the score. But the parity was short-lived. Mohun Bagan winger Karan found space down the left and scored a sensational goal, cutting inside and firing low past the keeper in the 78th minute.
Tactical Analysis
Mohun Bagan’s Strategy
Mohun Bagan’s coach deployed a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on dominating the midfield and exploiting the wings. In the second half, the team transitioned to a more compact 4-2-3-1, allowing the full-backs to join the attack and overload Kalighat’s flanks.
- Key Moves:
- Quick switches from the center to wide areas disrupted Kalighat’s defense.
- Set pieces were utilized with precision, with both Bagan goals originating from pressure situations.
Kalighat’s Resistance
Kalighat MS opted for a 4-4-2 setup, emphasizing tight lines and counterattacks. While defensively solid for large portions, they struggled to contain Bagan’s speed in the final third.
- Strengths:
- Compact midfield shape.
- Quick breaks using diagonal balls.
- Weaknesses:
- Gaps appeared as the second half wore on, especially on the wings.
- Lack of depth on the bench limited their ability to respond late in the match.
Star Performer: Karan
Karan, the young winger, once again proved to be the difference-maker for Mohun Bagan. Apart from his match-winning goal, his relentless runs and link-up play added unpredictability to Bagan’s attack. His versatility on both wings has made him one of the most exciting prospects in this CFL season.
Fan Atmosphere
Despite unpredictable monsoon showers, the stadium was filled with passionate supporters. Chants, flags, and drums echoed throughout the match. Mohun Bagan fans, anticipating the derby clash with East Bengal, were vocal from the first whistle to the last. The atmosphere was electrifying, capturing the essence of Kolkata’s football culture.
CFL 2025 Table Implications
With this victory, Mohun Bagan has strengthened its position in the top tier of the CFL standings. Kalighat MS, despite the defeat, remains in the mix for a top-five finish, though they’ll need a turnaround in their upcoming matches.
- Mohun Bagan: Solidifying momentum before the Derby.
- Kalighat MS: Competitive but must work on closing out games.
Preparing for the Kolkata Derby
The biggest takeaway from this game for Mohun Bagan is momentum. The team will face East Bengal in what promises to be one of the most significant derbies of recent years. The tactical sharpness, strong bench, and resilience shown in the Kalighat game could be pivotal against their arch-rivals.
Mohun Bagan will need to:
- Maintain defensive concentration, particularly during opposition counters.
- Improve finishing, as they missed two clear-cut chances in the second half.
- Keep key players like Karan and their central midfield duo injury-free.
Coach Reactions
Although there were no formal press conferences, sources close to the club confirmed that Mohun Bagan’s head coach praised the team’s ability to recover quickly after conceding the equalizer. The coaching staff is now focused on recovery sessions and closed-door tactical drills for the upcoming Derby.
Match Statistics
| Category | Mohun Bagan | Kalighat MS |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 58% | 42% |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 3 |
| Corners | 6 | 4 |
| Fouls Committed | 11 | 14 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 2 |
Upcoming Fixtures
- Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs East Bengal
Venue: Salt Lake Stadium
Date: July 21, 2025 - Kalighat MS vs United SC
Venue: Barasat Stadium
Date: July 20, 2025
Conclusion
This closely contested fixture was a test of nerves, tactics, and grit. Mohun Bagan’s 2–1 victory over Kalighat MS not only strengthens their campaign in the CFL but also sets the stage for what could be a season-defining clash against East Bengal. With their attack clicking into form and defensive improvements becoming evident, Mohun Bagan looks well-poised for a strong finish in the league.
For Kalighat, the loss is a reminder of the fine margins in football. Despite their valiant performance, they’ll need to regroup and come back stronger.
External Resources
- Mohun Bagan Club – Official Website
- Indian Football Association – West Bengal
- Calcutta Football League Fixtures & Updates
- AIFF – All India Football Federation
Also read: Home | Channel 6 Network – Latest News, Breaking Updates: Politics, Business, Tech & More
