Panos's debut, Habas's new challenge—both coaches are gearing up for the derby

XtraTime Web Desk

The wait is finally over. The 135th Durand Cup kicks off with Indian football's biggest rivalry as Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC lock horns in the season's first Kolkata Derby on Saturday.

Both teams completed their final preparations on Friday before heading into the highly anticipated clash. Unlike previous seasons, there is little to separate the two giants. East Bengal's remarkable resurgence, crowned by their ISL title last season, has significantly changed the balance of power in the derby. For several years before that, Mohun Bagan had entered most derbies as clear favourites, but that is no longer the case.

Foreign Players Yet to Arrive

This year's derby, however, comes with a unique challenge. Most of the foreign recruits from both sides are yet to arrive in Kolkata, meaning the contest is likely to be dominated by Indian players.

For Mohun Bagan, Dejan Drazic is currently the only foreign player available with the squad. Defender Alberto Rodriguez is expected to arrive later on Friday night. While Drazic could feature, Rodriguez is unlikely to be involved in Saturday's match.

East Bengal, meanwhile, have welcomed Ramirez and Rashid to the city. Head coach Antonio Lopez Habas is expected to take a final call on their availability only after assessing them ahead of kick-off.

Coaches Ready for the Battle

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, both Mohun Bagan head coach Panos and East Bengal boss Antonio Lopez Habas expressed confidence in their teams.

For Panos, this will be his first Kolkata Derby, and he admitted that coaching in front of a crowd of 50,000 to 60,000 spectators is a huge motivation.

"I have never coached a team in front of such a massive crowd. That itself motivates me," he said.

The Greek coach insisted that his philosophy revolves around attacking football and highlighted the quality of Indian players at his disposal.

"We've had a good preparation. There are no injury concerns in the squad, and we are confident of getting the victory," Panos stated.

He also acknowledged that managing a dressing room full of top-quality footballers is a significant challenge. Interestingly, he added that he doesn't see this match as the only derby in his life.

"Every difficult moment in life is a derby for me," he remarked.

Habas Focused on the Present

On the other side, Antonio Lopez Habas preferred to keep emotions away from the occasion and stressed professionalism over sentiment.

Having previously guided ATK and Mohun Bagan to success, Habas was reminded of his past association with the Mariners. The veteran Spaniard responded by pointing out that when he coached Mohun Bagan, they were champions—and now East Bengal are champions too.

"The past is the past," Habas said firmly, making it clear that he wants to focus entirely on his new chapter with East Bengal rather than his successful history with Mohun Bagan.

Derby Fever Reaches Boiling Point

With excitement building across Kolkata, all eyes are now on the season's first derby. Will Panos make a dream start to his Mohun Bagan tenure with a victory in his debut Kolkata Derby, or will Antonio Lopez Habas further strengthen his impressive derby record?

The answers will unfold under the lights of the iconic Kolkata Derby on Saturday.