Antonio Lopez Habas starts his stint for Mohun Bagan Super Giant with a draw as Dimitri Petratos equalizes in the dying moments against the Torchbearers in an action-packed Kolkata derby.

This was the first time that the Red and Gold Brigade picked up a point in the Kolkata Derby in ISL. Although East Bengal had an early advantage in the game courtesy to a goal by Ajay Chettri, Armando Sadiku equalized for the Mariners in an interval of 14 minutes. In the 52nd minute, East Bengal were awarded a penalty which was calmly converted by Cleiton Silva.

The Mariners equalized at the 87th minute courtesy of a goal by Dimitri Petratos. This was Habas’ first game as the Mariners’ manager following Juan Ferrando’s exit, and his team rallied to tie the game against their bitter rivals in the second half. In the first Kolkata Derby of the ISL 2023–24 at Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday, East Bengal split the spoils, and Dimi Petratos was the one who sparked life back into the Mariner’s seats.

Match Report: As It Happened

First Half:

The first Kolkata derby of ISL 2023-24 started with an early advantage as a cross from Nishu Kumar found Ajay Chettri who did not fail to score against Vishal Kaith. Injury woes for the Mariners continue as Anwar Ali was forced off as he was seen limping down the pitch at the mark of 13 minutes.

Mohunbagan Super Giant soon made their way back to the match after a floating cross by Brendan Hamill was scored by Armando Sadiku at the 17th minute. At the 18th minute of the match, East Bengal’s Spanish playmaker Saul Crespo was forced off owing to an injury. Sadiku had a chance to double the lead for Mohunbagan but he shot over an open goal at the 40th minute.

Second Half:

After the break, both teams looked composed enough until East Bengal was awarded a penalty following a rough challenge by Deepak Tangri on Mahesh Naorem Singh. The penalty was calmly converted by Cleiton Silva as the Brazilian beat Vishal Kaith using a panenka at the 55th minute.

In order to maintain their unbeaten derby record in the ISL, Mohunbagan made their desperate comeback courtesy of a goal by Dimitri Petratos after a cross by Sahal Abdul Samad fell to the Australian striker who powerfully struck the top of the net giving no chance to Prabsukhan Singh Gill at the mark of 87th minute. East Bengal also had their chance to regain the lead but Edwin Vanspaul failed to keep his shot on target.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

The Mariners will be facing Hyderabad FC on 10th of February at the Salt Lake Stadium. Although the camp expects the return of Joni Kauko to the first team, they will be missing the services of Anwar Ali (injury), Brendan Hamill (injury), Armando Sadiku (suspension) and Deepak Tangri (suspension).

On the other hand, Carles Cuadrat’s men will be facing Northeast United on 10th of February at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata. A confirmed absentee from the Torchbearer’s camp is Saul Crespo as he is out because of some minor injury.

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