Kolkata is set to host an electrifying Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 encounter as Mohun Bagan Super Giant (Mohun Bagan SC) takes on FC Goa at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Friday. Both teams enter this Week 2 opener desperate for their maiden victory of the season, promising a high-stakes battle under the floodlights.
Mohun Bagan SC kicked off their campaign with a narrow 0-1 defeat to Jamshedpur FC, where a solid first-half defense crumbled in the latter stages due to lapses in concentration. Playing on home turf now, coach Mehtab Hussain’s side is poised for a fierce comeback. The young squad showed glimpses of potential but lacked the cutting edge upfront.
Coach Hussain was candid in his assessment ahead of the game. ‘We’re a youthful, inexperienced team missing a proven striker,’ he admitted. ‘But I have full faith in these lads. Tomorrow, they’ll step up, create more chances, and deliver aggressive football.’ The home fans will be banking on this renewed vigor to turn the tide.
FC Goa, meanwhile, arrives in Kolkata smarting from a 1-1 draw against Inter Kashi. Despite dominating possession and carving out numerous opportunities, they failed to convert, leaving coach Manolo Marquez frustrated. ‘We had control but couldn’t finish,’ he reflected. With a blend of dynamic Indian talents and seasoned foreigners, Goa is determined not to repeat those errors.
Marquez anticipates a tough test. ‘They’ll play without pressure, which makes them dangerous. We have quality players, but we must prove it on the pitch.’ Both sides’ hunger for points could make this a goal-fest, as tactical battles unfold in midfield and defenses are pushed to the limit.
As the whistle blows, expect Mohun Bagan SC to leverage home advantage against Goa’s attacking flair. This matchup could define early momentum in the ISL title race.