Panos Calls Durand Final Schedule ‘Unfair’, Says Momentum Will Be Key in Kolkata Derby
The high-voltage Durand Cup final is set to take place at a packed Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Sunday, with the emotions of the Kolkata Derby adding an extra edge to the Mohun Bagan Super Giant-East Bengal showdown. Ahead of the much-anticipated clash, Mohun Bagan head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis expressed confidence about his team while also voicing his frustration over the tournament schedule
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The high-voltage Durand Cup final is set to take place at a packed Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Sunday, with the emotions of the Kolkata Derby adding an extra edge to the Mohun Bagan Super Giant-East Bengal showdown. Ahead of the much-anticipated clash, Mohun Bagan head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis expressed confidence about his team while also voicing his frustration over the tournament schedule.
“We are really disappointed with the schedule. It is unfair and very difficult for the coaches and the players,” Panos said. “However, I just want to say that momentum will be very important in this match. That is what I will speak to the players about.”
The tournament began with a Kolkata Derby and will conclude with another. Asked about the difference between the two encounters, the Mohun Bagan coach said, “We knew that if we won the first Derby, we would qualify for the knockout stage. If we win this Derby, we become champions.”
The victory in the earlier Derby, however, has boosted the team’s confidence. Panos also feels his side are much better prepared for the final than they were at the start of the competition. The arrival of foreign players has further strengthened the squad, giving the coach plenty of confidence.
According to Panos, experience will play an important role in the final, although it will not be the only deciding factor.
Mohun Bagan have also been inspired by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, who saved penalty shots in shootouts in two consecutive matches to help his side reach the final. Panos had no hesitation in declaring Kaith the best goalkeeper in the country.
For midfielder Samir Jelzicovic, this will be his first Kolkata Derby, and the occasion has already generated plenty of excitement. He is eager to win the trophy and celebrate with his teammates.
Jelzicovic is also familiar with East Bengal midfielder Danny Ramirez. “I have played with Danny. He knows me and I know him,” he said. However, he is determined to put that familiarity aside and give his best to help Mohun Bagan lift the Durand Cup.