In a thrilling Kolkata Derby, Jamie McLaren’s goal has given Mohun Bagan a 1-0 lead over East Bengal at half-time. The much-anticipated clash between two of Indian football’s biggest rivals kicked off in front of a packed stadium with both teams aiming to secure bragging rights. The first half was filled with high-tempo football, physical duels, and moments of brilliance as both teams sought to seize control.
Source:- bbc news
Mohun Bagan started brightly, applying pressure on East Bengal’s defense early on. Their midfield dominated possession, with Hugo Boumous pulling the strings, while the wingers constantly looked to stretch the opposition. The breakthrough finally came in the 25th minute when a well-placed cross from Dimitri Petratos found Jamie McLaren in the box. The Australian forward showed his predatory instincts, leaping high to nod the ball past East Bengal’s goalkeeper, giving Bagan the much-needed lead.
Source:- news 18
East Bengal, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm early on but grew into the game as the half progressed. Suhair VP had a great chance to equalize just before half-time, but his powerful shot was saved brilliantly by Mohun Bagan’s custodian, Vishal Kaith. East Bengal’s midfield lacked the creative spark to consistently trouble Bagan’s defense, with their attacks largely relying on long balls to their forwards.
Despite trailing, East Bengal will look to regroup during the break, knowing they’ve had their moments to get back into the game. For Mohun Bagan, McLaren’s goal has provided them with a crucial edge, but they will need to maintain their intensity in the second half to secure victory in this fiercely contested encounter. The second half promises more excitement as both teams fight for supremacy in one of the most famous derbies in Indian football.
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