‘DERBY’, this word is very familiar to my life from childhood till now and I believe it will be there till my existence. This is not only a word but is related with the passion of my life, my family, my friends and all aspects as well. I still remember my childhood memories and how it used to affect when there was football derby in my country between Gremio Vs Internacional. By God’s grace, I got a chance to be a part of it when I was in Gremio, I experienced how family, friends become rival till the last whistle of this battle. Yes, it is an absolute battle and then again I experienced this word in my second home India. A big thanks to this beautiful game.
It was inexpressible, Mohun Bagan the institute of Indian football history and East Bengal the rivals, I am still in this wherever I am. From the year 2000 to 2012 it was just experiencing moments every day in this beautiful game, Asia’s biggest derby and the biggest rivalry in the world. The crowd , the moments , the battle always excited me and I feel proud to have the taste of it.
While writing this, I am enjoying and experiencing its tempo in Kolkata , and the passion, love of the supporters of both the clubs.In this I League, East Bengal & Mohun Bagan have the most balanced squads, but watching both the team playing, I have some of my own opinions.
East Bengal , is having a problem in their team formation , but the team with experience players are able to manage the situation better in the derbies. Of course the pace and fast release of Dong and Vikash with good skillS and technique on the up front, could create opportunities for Ranty and thus East Bengal could be fatal. Khabra & Mehtab are not in best forms but still its derby and they could be best with their experience and Arnab in Defence is always rock solid. He is the best Indian defender in recent times. The players will get more energy when they will hear the thousands of supporters will start roaring for their team ….
But to speak very frankly MB is much more balanced in every position. In the defence, with the experience Luciano, Kingshuk , Dhana & Pritam, they look very organized. Midfielders are still bit slow but still there are experienced players like Souvik & Pronoy, they need to deliver good passes to wingers and the introduction of Sony ,Glen ,Balwant ,Yusa & Jeje, the names are enough to speak their volumes. So, the chances for Mohun Bagan is still higher but it is derby again. Let’s enjoy the spirit of derby , every roll of the ball , every shout , every moment , yes, I am excited!
Let’s enjoy this beautiful game till the last whistle is blown . Best of luck to both the teams.