Mohun Bagan eye return to winning ways vs Kashi

Mohun Bagan Super Giant will look to return to winning ways when they host Inter Kashi in an Indian Super League 2025-26 fixture at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Tuesday.

With the league entering a decisive phase, the contest carries significant weight for both sides, albeit for different reasons. The Mariners head into the match after a 1-1 draw against FC Goa, a result that extended a mixed run of form. Despite maintaining a strong position in the standings, dropped points in five of their last seven matches have slightly disrupted their momentum in the title race.

Currently second in the table with 21 points from 10 matches, Mohun Bagan have the opportunity to reclaim the top spot with a victory, depending on results elsewhere. The equation is straightforward a win keeps them firmly in control of their title push.

Head coach Sergio Lobera has emphasised the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating the opposition. His side has shown the ability to control matches through possession and structured play, but the lack of clinical finishing in recent games has cost them valuable points.

Lobera’s approach this season has been built around balance combining attacking width with defensive organisation. However, the team’s ability to convert chances in the final third remains a key area that needs improvement.

He highlighted this aspect ahead of the match, stressing the need for better execution in decisive moments. The emphasis is clearly on results rather than margins, with the primary objective being to secure all three points. In attack, Jamie Maclaren has been the focal point, leading the scoring charts for the team with nine goals. His movement inside the box and ability to finish under pressure have been central to Mohun Bagan’s attacking output.

Supporting him are wide players like Liston Colaco and Robinho, who provide pace and creativity on the flanks. Subhasish Bose has also contributed significantly, leading the team in assists and offering overlaps from deeper positions.

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In midfield, Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia), Anirudh Thapa, and Sahal Abdul Samad form a core unit that controls tempo and transitions. Their ability to dictate play and recover possession will be crucial against a side likely to defend deep and counter.

At the back, the presence of Vishal Kaith in goal has added stability, with the goalkeeper consistently delivering reliable performances.

Inter Kashi come into the fixture on the back of a 2-3 defeat to NorthEast United FC. Their recent form has been inconsistent, with five losses in their last seven matches. Currently tenth in the table with 11 points from 10 games, they are looking to stabilise their campaign. Despite the results, the team has shown moments of attacking promise. Alfred Planas Moya has been their primary goal threat, scoring four goals so far this season. His positioning and finishing will be key if Inter Kashi are to trouble Mohun Bagan’s defence.

Midfielders Sergio Llamas and Mohammed Asif have played important roles in linking play, while Sandip Mandi has contributed with assists. The defensive unit, featuring players like Nishu Kumar and Sumeet Passi, will need to maintain discipline against a strong attacking side.

Goalkeeper Shubham Dhas is expected to play a crucial role, particularly if Inter Kashi are forced to absorb sustained pressure.

Inter Kashi are likely to adopt a compact defensive structure, aiming to limit space and rely on counter-attacks. Their success will depend on how effectively they can transition from defence to attack and capitalise on limited opportunities. Mohun Bagan, on the other hand, are expected to dominate possession and control the tempo. The challenge for them will be breaking down a potentially deep defensive block and maintaining patience in build-up play.

Set-pieces could also play a decisive role, especially in a game where open-play chances might be limited.

For Mohun Bagan, the stakes are clear. With the title race tightening, every point matters. Dropping points at home against a lower-ranked side could complicate their campaign. For Inter Kashi, the match offers an opportunity to test themselves against one of the league’s strongest teams and potentially shift momentum in their favour.

The upcoming clash presents contrasting objectives Mohun Bagan aiming to reinforce their title credentials, and Inter Kashi looking to regain consistency. While the hosts enter as favourites, the recent run of results suggests that they cannot afford complacency.

With quality on both sides and pressure building in the standings, the match is set to play a key role in shaping the trajectory of both teams in the Indian Super League season.