Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal: Fit Sahal Abdul Samad, Anwar Ali Uncertain For Kolkata Derby

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Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal: Mohun Bagan had been without several key players with injuries for some time. However, as the second half of the ISL 2023-24 is set to begin, it seems they will be starting on a good note with most of the squad at their disposal.

However, the injured players are coming back after a long break. With the first Kolkata derby of the season standing at the door, coach Antonio Habas has not guaranteed that they will start the match.

Before the all-important Kolkata derby of this season's Indian Super League, almost the entire Mohun Bagan team barring Asish Rai could be seen in the training session. Talking about Asish Rai, the coach said, “He's injured and for tomorrow, it won't be possible for him to play.”

Sahal Abdul Samad and Anwar Ali were the centre of attention for everyone. Both players looked fit enough to train with the first team. Coach Habas later confirmed as such during the pre-match press conference.

However, the coach did not assure that any of them would start the match against East Bengal. About Sahal, he said, “Sahal is working and has been all week in all training sessions. He is a hundred per cent fit.”

About Anwar, he said, “Anwar is hundred per cent fit. I don't know if he will play tomorrow or not, but he is at his hundred per cent.” Both Anwar and Sahal have the ability to turn a match on its head.

Since Anwar Ali sustained an injury that saw him sit out for two months. His absence was felt almost immediately in the AFC Cup group stage and ISL matches. The Mariners kept conceding goals that might have been avoided in Anwar’s presence. The same can be said about Sahal who could have orchestrated a lot more chances for the Mariners if he had been fit. In the 6 ISL games he played for them before his injury, he provided 4 assists.