The Kolkata Derby arrives with serious title-race weight this ISL 2025-26 season. East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant are level on 22 points from 11 matches, with East Bengal leading the Indian Super League table on goal difference. The match will be played at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on May 17, Sunday.
Both sides dropped points before the derby, with East Bengal drawing with Punjab FC and Mohun Bagan being held by Inter Kashi, leaving the meeting between the two Kolkata giants with potentially decisive value in the title race.
Here’s a look at five match-ups that could decide this Kolkata derby:
Youssef Ezzejjari vs Alberto Rodriguez
Ezzejjari has been East Bengal’s biggest attacking threat this season, scoring 10 goals in 11 matches. His movement across the box and instinctive finishing will test Rodriguez, who will need to stay tight and deny the Moroccan forward space to turn or attack crosses.
Jamie Maclaren vs Anwar Ali
Maclaren has led Mohun Bagan’s attack with nine goals in 11 matches. Anwar, who has also chipped in with three goals for East Bengal, will have to deal with the Australian’s penalty-box movement and late runs. This duel could decide which side finds the sharper edge in the final third.
Miguel Figueira vs Apuia
Miguel has been East Bengal’s chief creator, registering four assists this season. Apuia’s role in midfield will be crucial to cutting off his passing lanes and stopping East Bengal from feeding its front line quickly. If Miguel gets time between the lines, East Bengal will have rhythm.
P.V. Vishnu vs Abhishek Singh
Vishnu has been one of East Bengal’s most productive wide players, with three assists this season. His direct running and delivery from wide areas could trouble Abhishek Singh, who is expected to operate at right-back for Mohun Bagan. Preventing early crosses into Ezzejjari will be key.
Liston Colaco vs Mohammad Rakip
Liston remains one of Mohun Bagan’s main outlets with his pace, ball-carrying and ability to isolate defenders. Rakip will have to stay disciplined, especially when Liston drifts inside from the left or looks to combine around the box. If Mohun Bagan builds momentum down that flank, East Bengal could be forced deeper.
Published on May 17, 2026