Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal, ISL 2024-25: 3 Players Who Could Shine for Torch Bearers in Kolkata Derby

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Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal, ISL 2024-25: East Bengal will face arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant in what promises to be another heated Kolkata Derby on Saturday, January 11. Despite East Bengal's subpar start to 2025, the 'Boro Khela' is known for its unpredictability, where form matters little, and passion takes centre stage.

While Mohun Bagan lead the Indian Super League (ISL) standings and boast a 100% record against East Bengal in the competition, the Red and Gold Brigade will be desperate to rewrite history. With their chances of breaking into the ISL top six hanging by a thread, this could be their moment of resurgence.

For East Bengal to overcome the Mariners, several players must step up. Here, we highlight three key players who could make the difference for the Torchbearers.

1. PV Vishnu

At just 23, PV Vishnu has emerged as a beacon of hope for East Bengal. The winger has been a revelation, providing speed, creativity, and goals. With three goals and one assist in 13 ISL appearances, Vishnu has shown flashes of brilliance despite the team’s struggles.

What makes Vishnu a potential game-changer is his ability to exploit wide spaces and take on defenders with confidence. His quick feet and unpredictability in the final third can unsettle even the most disciplined defences. Against Mohun Bagan, Vishnu’s pace and trickery could be East Bengal’s best bet to create scoring opportunities.

Moreover, his defensive work rate adds an extra layer of security, allowing him to track back and assist the defence when required. If Vishnu can combine his attacking flair with clinical decision-making in the final third, he could torment Mohun Bagan’s backline and give his side a much-needed edge.

2. Jeakson Singh

Club-record signing Jeakson Singh has been a pivotal figure in East Bengal’s campaign this season, showcasing his versatility and composure in midfield. With two goals in 11 ISL appearances, Jeakson’s ability to deliver in crucial moments has been a boon for the Red and Gold Brigade. His long-range strike against Chennaiyin FC – a stunning piledriver from outside the box – was not only a game-winning moment but a testament to his growing confidence and technical prowess.

Jeakson’s presence in the midfield has been vital in breaking up opposition play and maintaining East Bengal’s shape. Despite the team’s loss to Mumbai City FC, he stood out by completing a majority of his passes and disrupting the opponent’s rhythm with well-timed tackles. Against Mohun Bagan, Jeakson will need to replicate this form to counter the Mariners’ creative midfielders and initiate counter-attacks for his side.

3. Dimitrios Diamantakos

While Dimitrios Diamantakos has eight goals across all competitions this season, his ISL form has been underwhelming, with only three goals in 10 matches. The Greek striker, who found the net against Jamshedpur FC in East Bengal’s fourth ISL victory of the season, needs to rediscover his clinical touch if the Red and Gold Brigade are to breach Mohun Bagan’s formidable defence.

Diamantakos’s ability to finish under pressure has been his hallmark, but he must add more dimensions to his game. Against Mohun Bagan, he will need to drop deeper to link up with midfielders and create spaces for others to exploit. His intelligent movement off the ball can disrupt Mohun Bagan’s defensive structure, but he must ensure he’s more involved in the buildup play.