As the skies threatened rain over Kolkata on Friday, excitement among the football faithful remained undeterred. Queues formed outside the ticket counters of Salt Lake Stadium, a testament to the anticipation surrounding a historic clash. For the first time in the Indian Super League (ISL), Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face their local rivals Mohammedan Sporting Club. The match also marks the first derby of the season between two Kolkata clubs in the ISL.
For Mohammedan Sporting, this match carries extra significance as it is their debut season in the ISL. Farukh Ali, a dedicated fan from Rajarhat, has been busy purchasing tickets for fellow supporters. “We’ve filled up Kishore Bharati Krirangan, but playing at Salt Lake is special. Our win over Chennaiyin FC gives us hope for at least a draw,” he told Sportstar.
Mohammedan enters this historic matchup with renewed confidence after securing hard-fought 1-0 victory against Chennaiyin FC, their first-ever ISL win. Longtime fan Shahadat Siddiqui believes the team has the potential to pull off more surprises. “I’ve traveled for away games, and I’m hopeful that Sporting will make an impact in the ISL and shock teams that underestimate us,” he said, his optimism palpable.
Mohun Bagan, however, is looking to bounce back from a disheartening 0-3 loss against Bengaluru FC. Supporters like Sohail, a fan from Metiaburuz, remain hopeful despite the setback. “We beat Bengaluru last season, but not this time. That’s football, but I’m confident we’ll win this match,” he said, clutching his match tickets. “Even though my family didn’t want me to attend, I’ll be there to support my team.”
While the buzz for the match is undeniable, vendors selling jerseys and scarves have seen mixed fortunes due to the looming rains ahead of Durga Puja. “Sales have been okay, but the rain has affected things. Hopefully, it picks up before the match,” said Khokhon Dhal, a local vendor. Kavita, who has been selling jerseys for two years, added, “We usually sell for 150-200 rupees, and I hope sales improve on match day.”
Despite the weather playing hide-and-seek, Kolkata’s footballing community is ready to experience yet another thrilling chapter in its storied rivalry. Regardless of the result, fans from both sides are gearing up to witness a match that promises to be a landmark moment for Indian football, with Kolkata’s passion for the beautiful game once again taking center stage.
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