The city of Kolkata was divided for 90 minutes, but it was ATK Mohun Bagan’s night once again as they defeated their fierce rivals East Bengal with a score of 2-0.
The Mariners qualified for the playoffs last week, but this win was crucial as it guaranteed them a top-four finish. As a result, they secured home-field advantage in the deciding playoff tie.
After a hard-fought first half, ATK Mohun Bagan showed intent in the second, eventually scoring twice in the final quarter of the game to seal all three points.
Asked about the reasons behind the brilliant second half, head coach Juan Ferrando revealed that his team found more space in the middle of the field.
“I am also happy with the performance in the first half”, said Juan. “Maybe in the first half, we tried to find the spaces because East Bengal was very compact so it was difficult.
“Then we moved the ball quickly in the second half and step by step there was a distance between the defense and the midfield and of course our players get the space. Federico Gallego and Hugo Boumous were easier to find in the spaces and That is the reason. .
“If you watched the match, your feeling is that we played much better because we found the space at the right time. But honestly, I’m completely happy with the 90 minutes.”
They now face sixth-placed Odisha FC in the playoffs at Salt Lake Stadium in what promises to be another decisive tie. Speaking about his chances, the Spanish tactician declared:
“We have a week to prepare and it’s a very important match because it’s a 90-minute knockout match. When you play a two-game tie there are chances in both games. But in ninety minutes in terms of mentality, we have to be ready because one mistake and you’re grounded. I think it is very important to work on focusing on our work and limiting mistakes.”
“Our goal in the locker room was to score three points” – Juan Ferrando, ATK Mohun Bagan head coach
The Mariners have had an impressive record against East Bengal since joining the Indian Super League as they are unbeaten against their Kolkata rivals. However, he revealed that securing third position was important in the context of the derby.
“Honestly, today it was important to get the third position. Because of the win now, it’s easy to play at home in the playoffs. Our goal in the locker room was to get three points because it was very important. Now it’s time to change your mindset and get ready for the playoffs.
Forward Dimitri Petratos accompanied his coach at the post-match press conference. The Australian scored his ninth goal of the season to end the game. He talked about the celebrations and what it meant to him.
“Every game is important and the derby is a bit more special. It was for the fans. Usually our fans sit on the other side, but this time it was the East Bengal fans. So I jumped up and went to our fans. .
“I want them to be close to us and I enjoyed the goal in the derby. This is my club, I go out there and give my best in every game”, added Petratos.