Mohun Bagan Super Giant made stunning start to ISL 2023-24 campaign. As they defeated newly-promoted Punjab FC with a commanding 3-1 score line at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. The defending champions showed their prowess in the season opener, with goals from Jason Cummings, Dimitri Petratos, and a crucial contribution from substitute Manvir Singh. Luka Majcen managed to pull one back for Punjab FC. But it wasn’t enough to disrupt Mohun Bagan’s confident performance.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant :Title Defense Begins with a Bang:
Mohun Bagan Super Giant showcased their title-defending ambitions right from start of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season. Team kicked off their campaign at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata against Punjab FC.
Jason Cummings Opens the Scoring: Mohun Bagan Super Giant Lead
The reigning champions wasted no time in asserting their dominance as they found the back of the net in the 10th minute. Ashish Rai made a brilliant run down the right flank, delivering a precise cutback to Sahal Abdul Samad. Samad’s touch set up Jason Cummings, who calmly slotted the ball home with his left foot from close range, giving Mohun Bagan an early lead.
Petratos Extends the Lead:
As the match progressed, Mohun Bagan continued to apply pressure on Punjab FC. In the 35th minute, Dimitri Petratos capitalized on an assist from Liston Colaco to increase the host’s lead. Although Mohun Bagan had opportunities to score more, Punjab FC’s goalkeeper, Kiran Limboo, thwarted further attempts, including a shot from Victor Yuste.
Punjab FC’s Luka Majcen Responds:
Punjab FC refused to go down without a fight and managed to pull one back early in the second half. Luka Majcen seized the opportunity in the 53rd minute, capitalizing on a mistake from Mohun Bagan’s Glan Martins who made a sloppy back pass. Majcen’s goal rekindled hopes of a comeback for Punjab FC.
Manvir Singh Secures Victory for Mohun Bagan Super Giant :
Mohun Bagan, initially appearing complacent with their two-goal lead, woke up after Majcen’s goal. Coach Juan Ferrando introduced Manvir Singh in the 62nd minute to bolster the attack. Singh made an immediate impact, scoring a crucial goal with a deft flick from a Petratos cross. This goal effectively sealed the victory for Mohun Bagan, leaving Punjab FC with little chance of a comeback.
Missing Midfielders and Strategic Adjustments:
Mohun Bagan faced this crucial ISL clash without two key midfielders, Anirudh Thapa and Ashique Kuruniyan. Thapa was sidelined due to a suspension resulting from a red card received in the Durand Cup final, his last appearance in a domestic tournament. Meanwhile, Kuruniyan’s season was in jeopardy due to an ACL injury suffered while on national duty.
In the absence of Thapa and Kuruniyan. Sahal Abdul Samad and Glan Martins took charge of the midfield for Mohun Bagan. Coach Ferrando adopted strategic approach to maintain balanced attack, with Australian duo of Petratos and Cummings leading the way.
Punjab FC’s Efforts Post Majcen’s Goal:
After conceding the third goal. Punjab FC made several attacking efforts in an attempt to stage comeback. However, they struggled to create significant chances inside Mohun Bagan’s box, with the defense holding firm. The solitary goal from Luka Majcen remained their only success in game, where Mohun Bagan’s dominance was evident.
Conclusion:
Mohun Bagan Super Giant‘s triumphant start to the ISL 2023-24 season showcased their determination to defend their title. The team’s impressive performance against Punjab FC demonstrated their prowess and adaptability, even in the absence of key players. With this convincing 3-1 victory, Mohun Bagan sent a strong message to their rivals that they remain a force to be reckoned with in the Indian Super League.
