ISL 2021-22: Debutants to watch out for in the Kolkata Derby

Photo Courtesy : Google

Xtra Time Web Desk: The much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between SC East Bengal and ATK Mohun Bagan on Saturday has all the ingredients to be a humdinger. The hype surrounding the match is electric as always. The history and the heritage of this particular match is incomparable to any other football match in India. Thus, the players who play well in this particular match creates a different place in the hearts of the supporters. Xtra Time takes a sneak peek at the debutants who can make a name for themselves in the derby:


SC East Bengal

  1. Tomislav Mrcela : The Australian center back has played in leagues like the A League and the Croatian League. He comes to ISL and this derby with a vast amount of experience which can be a big boost for SC East Bengal. He will be looking to create an impact in the Derby.
  2. Franjo Prce : The young Croatian center back has played in clubs like Lazio. He has already impressed everyone in the first match against Jamshedpur FC. Prce will add a lot of depth and agility to the East Bengal squad and will be crucial in stopping the dangerous ATK Mohun Bagan duo of Roy Krishna and Hugo Boumous.
  3. Antonio Perosevic : The Croatian forward will have to play a very important role in the attack for SC East Bengal if they are to create an upset against the strong ATK Mohun Bagan side. His passes and crosses will be a very crucial factor for his side.
  4. Hira Mondal: The talented left back from Bengal will have to play a huge role if his team has to beat the Mariners. The best left back of I League last season, would be a deciding factor on the left side of the field for SC East Bengal.
  5. Darren Sidoel : The Dutch defensive midfielder is one of the key Young guns of SC East Bengal. He will be the bridge between the defense and the attack and pull the strings in the midfield. His role will also be very important in negating the Jony Kauko led strong ATKMB defense.

ATK Mohun Bagan

  1. Amrinder Singh : The Indian Pillar in goal is the first name which comes to the mind when we talk about Derby debutants for ATK Mohun Bagan. His role under the woodwork would be very crucial in stopping the SC East Bengal attacking trio of Chukwu, Dervisevic and Persosevic.
  2. Jony Kauko : The Finnish midfield maestro needs no introduction as such. The Mariner played in this year’s Euro Cup and was a vital part of Finland’s midfield. His experience and ball skills will play a huge part in organizing the midfield of ATKMB.
  3. Liston Colaco : The Goan winger was one of the finds of the ISL last season. Having played superbly for Hyderabad FC, the green and maroon management signed him this year. Known for his dribbling ability and pace, the forward will look to make an impression in his derby debut.
  4. Hugo Boumous : The French-Moroccan forward needs no introduction. Having played the ISL for a few years now, the former FC Goa magician would like to contribute a lot in the Derby. He will be the most crucial player in the attack alongside Roy Krishna.
  5. Michael Soosairaj : The left back/winger from Tamil Nadu will look to make his derby debut a memorable one with his electric pace. Coming back from an injury, he would also look to reestablish his place in the Mariners starting eleven.