Kolkata football rivals East Bengal and Mohun Bagan have officially begun preparations for their much-anticipated derby under the guidance of their newly appointed head coaches. With the global football spotlight shifting from the FIFA World Cup to domestic action, excitement is building ahead of one of India's biggest football fixtures.
East Bengal have welcomed experienced Spanish coach Antonio Lopez Habas, who returned to Kolkata with extensive knowledge of Indian football after successful spells in the Indian Super League. Habas conducted his first full training session, focusing on fitness, tactical transitions, and match situations as he looks to prepare the squad in limited time before the derby.
The Red and Gold brigade featured several established Indian players alongside promising young talents promoted from the reserve team. Speaking after training, Habas admitted the short preparation period would make the task challenging but expressed confidence in getting the squad ready.
Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan have begun a new chapter under Greek coach Panagiotis Dilberis, replacing the club's long-standing Spanish coaching setup. Dilberis, who previously coached Punjab FC, supervised an intense session emphasizing possession drills, transitions, and tactical organization. Senior players were joined by several emerging youngsters as preparations gathered momentum.
The arrival of new foreign recruit Dreyan Dazic has further strengthened Mohun Bagan's squad, although several overseas players are still awaiting visa clearance.
Off the field, organizers have released 30,000 tickets for the upcoming Durand Cup matches, with half available through online sales. Digital mobile tickets will be used for most fixtures except the derby, making entry more convenient for supporters.
Fans from both clubs are eagerly awaiting another thrilling chapter in Kolkata's iconic football rivalry.
