Tag: East Bengal

by India Footy

I-League 2018/19: Mohun Bagan seek revival under new coach

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan will seek a revival of fortunes under new coach Khalid Jamil when they take on Minerva Punjab in a must win 2018/19 I-League fixture on Wednesday at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, kick-off 2 pm.

Khalid Jmail takes over the reins of the team after previous incumbent Sankarlal Chakraborty put in his papers following successive defeats against Neroca FC and Real Kashmir which leaves them on sixth place in league standings with 15 points from 11 matches, nine points shy of leaders Chennai City FC.

Formerly at bitter rivals East Bengal where he failed to impress, Khalid has a big job on his hands but he is confident the players available will do the task to revive the team.

“It is a big challenge for me and I am aware but only unity at the moment will help us. I will do my best as the coach to make sure the team returns to where it belongs. I believe the players available are capable of accomplishing the task.” Khalid said after conducting his first training session on Tuesday.

“Players are fully aware that what happened in last few matches is simply unacceptable for a club of Mohun Bagan’s magnitude and stature. The first thing I need to do with the players is to reinforce them mentally, to make them mentally stronger. Once the head is okay, then everything else will take care of itself. The important thing is injecting them with elements of self-belief and self-confidence,”  he added.

Although Khalid has mentioned that it’s literally impossible to make any drastic changes in just 24 hours but judging by Mohun Bagan’s training session on Tuesday, the former India international has definitely succeeded to inject positive energy in the side that has lost the fighting spirit and will to win.

“We need to prepare for the race till the end because the difference between top and bottom teams is not that big. Definitely it’s difficult but not impossible we need to give our best shot,” Khalid concluded.

Mohun Bagan will be without defender Lalchhawnkima (Kim Kima), who is injured. He join long term absentee Sukhdev Singh.

by India Footy

Mohun Bagan confirm Khalid Jamil as new head coach

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan have confirmed the appointment of Khalid Jamil as the new head coach. He takes over from Sankarlal Chakraborty who resigned yesterday, taking the blame for team’s poor performance in ongoing 2018/19 I-League.

“With immense pleasure we wish to inform you that Mr. Khalid Jamil has been appointed as the new Head Coach of Mohun Bagan Senior Football Team for remainder of 2018-2019 football season.” a club statement read.

With Mohun Bagan in desperate need in a change of fortunes, Jamil could well be the man they will be looking for, as the Mumbaikar will hope to bring his experience to the fore and lead the team to better results.

Nonetheless, his appointment will raise eyebrows. Having guided Aizawl FC to their maiden I-League triumph, Jamil was roped in amid fanfare with a two-year contract by East Bengal last season. However, at the end of the season East Bengal sacked Jamil after he failed to live up to the club’s expectations with one year left on his contract.

Players who serve under Jamil praise him for his technical astuteness and in-depth knowledge of all players in the I-League.

However, the coach’s fiery, many would say erratic, personality, and run-ins with administrators, match officials and sometimes his own players have often been his downfall at clubs.

Jamil’s first assignment will be a home tie against Minerva Punjab on Wednesday.

by India Footy

Mohammedan SC sink Oil India to set up East Bengal final

KALIMPONG: It was not the prettiest of performances from an Mohammedan Sporting Club team that will start their Hero 2nd Division League campaign in less than three weeks, but they’ll be happy about progressing to the finals of the 2018 GTA Chairman’s Gold Cup final after beating Oil India by 2-0 at Mela Ground in Kalimpong on Friday.

This was the third meeting between these two teams in past two months and with both teams knowledgeable about the other, they played the better part of the first stanza with caution. Play was interchanged in the middle of the park, and both teams had the same strategy of playing in transition instead of delivering crosses in the boxes.

Nonetheless, Mohammedan SC were the first to launch attacks, as Snehasish Dutta’s dazzling overlapping runs looking dangerous during the early stages.

Mohammedan SC’s momentum was interrupted occasionally when Oil India managed to take play up into the opposition half on the break, the first of which came in the seventh when Tulya Das try to play a through ball to the on-running Jayanta Basumatary, but the latter arrived late.

As the clock wound down in the first-half, most of the play had taken place at the heart of the field and the goalkeepers had less to do, only called into action when taking goal kicks.

However, a moment of sheer brilliance by Philip Adjah and a clinical finish by Pankaj Moula opened the scoring for Mohammedan SC in the 16th minute.

Having taken the lead, Mohammedan SC got a much needed confidence boost and they increased their pressure up front dominating the game entirely. Despite creating numerous scoring opportunities it was lack of finishing that saw first-half ended 1-0.

Oil India started the second-half stronger, in the opening 10 minutes Oil India continued to impose themselves on the game without reward as Laltu Mondal, between the sticks, held out to good efforts.

The Black Panthers also got a few times close to getting the second goal and looked dangerous on the set-pieces, but the ball didn’t find the back of the net.

Meanwhile, Oil India really struggled to find their footing in the game as Mohammedan SC looked comfortable to sit back and hold onto the ball.

Mintu Boro was introduced by Oil India coach Subrata Bhattacharya (Jr.) in the closing stages of the game as the Dhulijan-based side looked to snatch a late equalizer.

Despite the momentum turning in Oil India’s favour, Mohammedan SC fought back to add a second when Pjilip Adjah slotted home from close range after rounding Oil India goalkeeper Nihal Das in the 90th minute to put the result beyond questions.

In the stoppage time Mohammedan SC’s Rakesh Karmakar and Oil India’s Tulya Das were given marching order.

The final will be played on Sunday between Mohammedan SC and East Bengal at Darjeeling.

Mohmmedan SC Line-up: Laltu Mondal, Kamran Farooque, Prosenjit Pual, Seydou Mady, Snehasish Dutta, Prosenjit Chakraborty, Pankaj Moula, Rakesh Karmakar, Gatch Arthur Diomande, Philip Adjah Tetteh, Sumit Das.

by India Footy

Mohammedan Sporting in talks with former East Bengal midfielder

KOLKATA: Mohammedan Sporting Club are reportedly in talks with former East Bengal midfielder Mahmoud Al Amna for the forthcoming 2018/19 2nd Division League.

A source close to the club has revealed to IndiaFooty that talks are underway between Amna’s representative and Mohammedan Sporting officials about securing his services, however, the club have vowed not to break the bank for the Syrian.

The 35-year-old was recently parted ways with East Bengal by mutual consent after he failed to recover from his injury, sustained during East Bengal’s pre-season in Malaysia and was out of action since the beginning of the 2018/19 I-League. However, it appears like Amna has found a new home in Kolkata.

Although Amna has claimed in a recent interview that he is close to regaining his fitness, we have learnt that to earn a contract at Mohammedan Sporting, he will have to go though a complete medical and physical fitness test.

The Black Panthers have been rather quite in the recent past but reports surfaced that the management have been working silently but tirelessly to beef up the squad. The club have already signed Nigerian striker Eze Stanley from Calcutta Customs.

by India Footy

Subhash Bhowmick resigns as East Bengal technical director

Kolkata: East Bengal on Tuesday have confirmed that Subhash Bhowmick has resigned as technical director of the club.

“Mr. Subhas Bhowmik has officially resigned from the services of the Club,” the club said in a statement.

East Bengal appointed Bhowmik as it’s technical director for the 2018-19 season, however, a few weeks ago the AIFF made it clear that the technical directors also need to have the ‘A’ coaching license to work in I-League.

Under the current scenario, the Club had no option but to avail the services of licensed coaches for the ensuing I- League. Keeping in mind the long standing association and value brought by Bhowmik, the Club had approached him to take on the role of a Technical Advisor to the Club, which he refused to take up on a professional basis but has assured the Club that he will advise whenever the need arises.

“It has been a wonderful and inspiring journey at East Bengal Club and even though I am leaving, I only wish the club success in all endeavours ahead.” Bhowmik said.

On this exit East Bengal General Secretary Kalyan Majumdar said “East Bengal club recognizes Mr. Subhas Bhowmik as a club legend, an icon who has contributed to the Club’s success both as a player and as a coach continuously over the last 49 years and wishes him the best of health and success for the future.”

by India Footy

East Bengal denies Sankarlal Chakraborty rumours

KOLKATA: East Bengal have poured cold water on speculations that they are attempting to lure Mohun Bagan coach Sankarlal Chakraborty to join their backroom staff.

A recent report in Bengali daily Sangbad Pratidin suggested East Bengal CEO Sanjit Sen have initiated talks with 2018/19 Calcutta Premier Division ‘A’ title winning coach, as their Spanish coach Alejandro Menendez wants Sankarlal in his technical team.

However, the East Bengal hierarchy vehemently denied such claims, putting to bed the rumours.

A club statement read: “Quess East Bengal FC would like to officially refute false news reports claiming the club’s wish to have Mohun Bagan FC coach Mr. Shankar Lal Chakraborty join the club. QEBFC & Quess has always been clear about the club’s adherence to ethical practices, and would like to reserve the right to take strong legal action will be taken against those who are spreading such malicious stories.”

by India Footy

CFL 2018/19: Black Panthers take aim at Tollygunge

KOLKATA: Mohammedan Sporting Club takes aim at Tollygunge Agragami in their upcoming 2018/19 Calcutta Premier Division ‘A’ match, as they look to maintain their late found form.

Black Panthers head into Saturday’s encounter at Barasat Stadium in good spirits after recording a 2-1 win over East Bengal earlier this week which has seen them move up to fourth place in the league standings with 16 points from 8 fixtures.

However, Mohammedan SC technical director Raghu Nandi is not getting carried away with their latest win over East Bengal and called on his side to ensure the focus doesn’t waver as he stressed the importance of maintaining their winning run.

“The boys have been turning up with some very good performances but I still think there’s so much we need to do better and improve on,” said Nandi.

“We are hoping to continue with our winning run and it should be a good habit for us to pick up wins consistently.”

“We aim for a top two finish and it’s very much possible. To ensure this dream we must get three points from our remaining matches. We are going to try harder and achieve this goal we had since the start of the season,” he added.

On the other hand, Tollygunge are on 10th place with just four points from 9 outings. Tomorrow’s fixture is thus a crucial one for them as they desperately need a win in their remaining two games in order to survive in the top flight.

“Tollygunge will go all out for a win. So we need to be patient and stay strong defensively. We have to continue playing as we have played so far but with more spirit and enthusiasm.” Nandi concluded.

Mohammedan SC, going into the match, would hope Bazie Armand to man the midfield and ensure they come out as victors. The Ivorian’s ability to stop the opponent and initiate their moves will be vital for Black Panthers.

Ghanaian striker Philip Adjah Tetteh will be a focal point in the match as he helped the club to register a win over East Bengal having scored a second-half brace coming from the bench.

Nonetheless, Nandi is reluctant to put too much pressure on the 20-year-old, and despite his heroics Adjah might still find his place on the bench.

Meanwhile, Mohammedan SC will be without their inspirational skipper Lancine Toure, who sits out the match with a suspension. Though Nandi admits Toure’s absence is a blow to his side, but he believes the squad has the depth required to overcome Tollygunge.

by India Footy

I had to stay sharp in my reading of the game, says Philip Adjah

KOLKATA: Mohammedan Sporting Club striker Philip Adjah Tetteh has expressed huge delight after guiding Black Panthers to a 2-1 win over East Bengal on Tuesday at Saltlake Stadium

Adjah’s (87′ & 90+4′) late brace ensured Black Panthers sealed the points in the Calcutta Premier Division ‘A’ clash after East Bengal took the lead through Johnny Acosta (12′).

Speaking after the match, An elated Adjah – who was signed by Mohammedan just a few weeks back – says he is happy to have scored and that the goals will remain in his memories forever.

“It’s always feels good when you score, but when you score twice that too against a strong opponent like East Bengal it’s something special.” Adjah said.

“I always aim to score, but then again, for me the team’s success is more important than individual goals. I am happy to make a contribution as long as we get maximum points. The supporters have been waiting for this win. They are happy and enjoying the win,” he continued.

Adjah, who came on in the second-half as a replacement for Princewill Emeka, revealed that he used his time on the bench to assess the opposition if he were to be called upon.

“As a new player in any game, more especially when you are on the bench, there are many things that go through your mind. I had to stay calm and focused because when people see a new name on the list, there is an expectation that you must do well when you get the chance. I had to stay sharp in my reading of the game, just in case I came on. Coaches and teammates played a big role in making me mentally ready for this game,” the Ghanaian added.

The striker also shed some light his bizarre goal celebration, in which he appeared to be mimicking a dog urinating.

“I don’t plan goal celebration. I do whatever comes to mind.” he explained.

 

by India Footy

CFL 2018/19: Mohun Bagan aim to secure title against Customs

KOLKATA: Mohun Bagan could wrap up the 2018/19 Calcutta Premier Division ‘A’ title when they take on Calcutta Customs on Wednesday at Mohun Bagan ground.

The Mariners are three points away from clinching their 30th Calcutta Football League title and that will be their first in nine years if they go on to be crowned champions.

Sankarlal Chakraborty’s men are three points clear of East Bengal at the summit of league standings. They have attained 23 points in 9 league matches while East Bengal are on 20 points after an identical number of matches.

Customs, on the other hand, are on fifth position with 13 points from 7 matches and a win over Mohun Bagan would brighten their chances of making a top three finish.

As much as Mohun Bagan is getting closer to the league triumph, Chakraborty is taking a cautious approach against Customs, who are yet to be beaten in the Calcutta Premier Division ‘A’ this season.

Even while everyone around is tipping Mohun Bagan for the title, Chakraborty refused to be drawn into any talk of glory.

“Anyone who thinks that an easy opponent is waiting for us is making an enormous mistake. Customs are a good side and they are playing good football. It is not going to be easy,” said Chakraborty.

Although Bagan gaffer is predicting a tough contest against Customs, yet he is quietly confident of his team’s chances against the side who held East Bengal for a goalless draw earlier in the campaign.

“I haven’t laid any expectations down to the boys. You also don’t want to disturb your players with lots of details which might be counter-productive. This is a game that we are taking very seriously and we know what we need to do. The league is for us to win now and I hope we get the right result,” he added.

Should Mohun Bagan stumble against Customs, they will have to get the job done against cross-city rivals Mohammedan Sporting Club on September 18, 2018 in Mini Kolkata Derby.

(Written before East Bmegal vs Mohammedan SC game)

by India Footy

Games Like This Build Character Says Mohammedan Coach Sudip Sarkar

KOLKATA: Mohammedan Sporting Club coach Sudip Sarkar is looking forward to their Calcutta Premier Division ‘A’ clash with East Bengal on Tuesday at Salt Lake Stadium.

“Playing against the biggest sides in the competition is always exciting because that’s where players really get the opportunity to test themselves individually and as a collective,” Sarkar said.

The former national goalkeeper has also acknowledged East Bengal’s stature. “East Bengal are a huge team, and we respect them. But we have to do what we do best,” adds gaffer.

“We know they are not an easy team to beat, but it will all come down to who is hungrier, and I know that we are hungry enough. Any team we play we have a mentality to win.”

“We have done our match analysis and we have pointed out our opponent’s strong points and weaknesses. All we have then to do on match day is to stick to the plan and execute well,”

“We need to deliver for the fans. Games like this build character.” he concluded.

East Bengal are unbeaten in their last three matches against Mohammedan SC, who will be looking to break that record.

History shows that East Bengal have dominated this encounter from 2015/16 as the last time Mohammedan SC won a derby was in 2014/15 season courtesy of Imran Khan’s solitary goal.