Fatorda, Oct 30 (NationPress) Just two weeks ago, the atmosphere at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan was filled with disappointment for East Bengal FC. A heartbreaking defeat in the IFA Shield final, concluded by a penalty shootout against Mohun Bagan SG, has left a lingering sense of loss for the Red and Golds.

This Friday, East Bengal will seize the opportunity for revenge as they face off against their long-standing rivals at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, at 19:30 IST.

The stakes in this final Group A showdown of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 are as complex as the rivalry itself. A win for either East Bengal or Mohun Bagan guarantees a spot in the semi-finals. However, a scored draw allows East Bengal to progress.

If the match ends without any goals, the earlier game between Dempo SC and Chennaiyin FC will influence the outcome. A victory for Dempo by five or more goals will see them advance ahead of both Kolkata teams. A win by fewer than four goals guarantees East Bengal a place in the next round.

In the event of a 4-0 win for Dempo, it will come down to a draw of lots between the Golden Eagles and the Red and Gold Brigade if the derby remains goalless. There’s yet another twist: if Dempo wins by four goals despite conceding against Chennaiyin, they will qualify.

Ultimately, while East Bengal holds a slight advantage, Mohun Bagan can secure their fate with a win. With such narrow margins and high stakes, the third Kolkata Derby of the 2025-26 season is poised to deliver an electrifying spectacle under the Goan lights.

The tension adds to the heat of this already intense match, but East Bengal coach Óscar Bruzón has cautioned his team against underestimating their opponents. “We’re not aiming for a draw,” he stated. “Mohun Bagan can strike at any moment. We’ll play to win from start to finish.”

Bruzón’s remarks echo a squad that has been regaining its form. East Bengal has shown they can compete with the ISL champions Mohun Bagan SG.

In the ongoing AIFF Super Cup, the Red and Golds have netted six goals in two matches, showcasing their attacking fluidity driven by Naorem Mahesh Singh’s creativity, Bipin Singh’s directness, and Hamid Ahadad’s presence upfront.

Spanish midfielder Saúl Crespo shared the upbeat mood within the team. “We are enjoying every moment. It’s refreshing after our win over Chennaiyin. We understand the significance of this derby. The energy is palpable,” Crespo expressed.

As for Mohun Bagan SG, their campaign in the AIFF Super Cup has been steady yet unspectacular. Under José Molina, they remain unbeaten, though they lack their usual cutting edge, as evidenced by their recent goalless draw against Dempo SC.

The Mariners' defensive setup, led by captain Subhasish Bose, has been solid, but they need to find the back of the net more frequently. With everything at stake, Australian strikers Jason Cummings and Jamie Maclaren must reignite their scoring touch.

“This season has been challenging,” Molina acknowledged. “But we have faced tough times before. We will fight for our supporters and strive to bring them joy.”

Molina also believes that controlling the midfield will play a critical role in the derby. Apuia and Anirudh Thapa aim to manage the tempo for Bagan, while Bruzón's Crespo and Lalchungnunga will seek to disrupt their rhythm in what promises to be a fiercely tactical battle. “At this stage, there are few surprises left. Both teams are well aware of each other,” Molina remarked. “The outcome will hinge on who can capitalize on their chances.”

History often defies expectations. Mohun Bagan captain Subhasish Bose encapsulated the sentiment perfectly: “Every derby feels like a final, and this one certainly is. Our fans expect victory, and we’ll give it our all.” His sentiments resonate throughout both camps, filled with a blend of nerves, passion, and pride.

This thrilling match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Khel and available for streaming on JioHotstar.