Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the defending champions, will aim to reclaim the summit when they host Inter Kashi at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Tuesday in an Indian Super League fixture. The Mariners arrive off a 1-1 draw against FC Goa and currently occupy second place with 21 points from 10 matches. A victory would elevate them to 24 points, potentially moving them atop the table depending on East Bengal's result.

Mohun Bagan's form and squad depth

Under head coach Sergio Lobera, the side has blended attacking aggression with defensive solidity, though they have dropped points in five of their last seven ISL outings. Forward Jamie Maclaren has been prolific with nine goals this season, while Subhasish Bose leads in assists. Wingers Liston Colaco and Robinho have provided width, and midfielder Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia) has anchored the midfield alongside Anirudh Thapa and Sahal Abdul Samad. Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith has been the custodian.

Lobera's message before the match

The Mohun Bagan coach cautioned against complacency, emphasizing clinical finishing and full commitment. "If we think it will be an easy win, it will be a big mistake. I'm sure if we are not giving our 100 per cent, we cannot win the game," Lobera said. He also highlighted the importance of midfielder Apuia for balance and urged focus on accumulating points rather than goal difference.

Inter Kashi's uphill challenge

Inter Kashi arrive in Kolkata on the back of a 2-3 defeat to NorthEast United FC and sit tenth with 11 points from 10 matches. They have suffered five defeats in their last seven games, making their task considerably steeper against title contenders. Forward Alfred Planas Moya has been their top scorer with four goals, while Sandip Mandi has chipped in with assists. Midfielders Sergio Llamas and Mohammed Asif anchor their play, with Nishu Kumar and Sumeet Passi providing defensive experience.

Inter Kashi's tactical approach

Coach Abhijit Mondal indicated continuity in setup, referencing Habas (likely a coaching consultant or predecessor's framework) and promising full commitment despite the odds. "We know that Mohun Bagan are title contenders. They are at a stage where they have to win all the matches," Mondal acknowledged. Defender Sumeet Passi echoed the sentiment, vowing to "give them a fight" while sticking to their game plan.

What's at stake

For Mohun Bagan, this is a chance to consolidate their title defence and move closer to the top. For Inter Kashi, it is an opportunity to upset a heavyweight and gain momentum in a campaign where they have struggled for consistency. The match underscores the competitive depth of the ISL 2025-26 season, where even mid-table sides are capable of testing the favourites.