East Bengal hold a star studded Mohun Bagan SuperGiant at bay with a 1-1 draw
Mohun Bagan dominated the first half through tactical control, capitalizing on a defensive lapse when Manbir Singh scored the opening goal
Xtra Time Webdesk: The Kolkata League derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan ended in a 1-1 draw at the Vidyasagar Sports Complex in Barasat, with East Bengal holding the psychological advantage in the end despite Mohun Bagan fielding a star-studded lineup that included Mehtab, Subhasish, Sahal, Manbir, and Apuya. Mohun Bagan dominated the first half through tactical control, capitalizing on a defensive lapse when Manbir Singh scored the opening goal following resilient defending by East Bengal youngsters Tanmoy Das, Ankan, and Chaku Mandi. In the second half, a resurgent East Bengal shifted the momentum and pressured Mohun Bagan's defense, creating multiple scoring opportunities before Mohamed Bilal equalized with a powerful header from a corner kick. While Mohun Bagan failed to find a winner, the subdued performances of their senior Indian contingent raised concerns for coach Panos ahead of the ISL, whereas the standout display by East Bengal's youth prospects made a strong case for their inclusion in the senior team.
