Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 15, 2024 4:06 pm GMT
Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s journey in the Indian Super League took a surprising turn on September 28, as they faced a decisive 3-0 loss against Bengaluru FC. This match marked their first away game of the 2024-25 season, and it is a game that head coach Jose Molina will not soon forget. The defeat not only highlighted their defensive frailties but also raised concerns about the team’s overall attacking play.
First Half Misfortunes
The match at Sree Kanteerava Stadium started poorly for the Mariners, who were quick to find themselves trailing. Bengaluru FC seized the chance early on, scoring two goals within the first 20 minutes. This early setback would set the tone for the rest of the match.
Jose Molina reflected on the game, emphasizing the lack of effectiveness in both attack and defense. “We have conceded too many goals, that is clear,” he said. While acknowledging some defensive mistakes, Molina believes that the root cause of their problems lies in their inability to capitalize on attack.
Understanding the Attacking Problem
Molina pointed out that to resolve their defensive issues, the team must improve in how they approach scoring. “If we can attack better, we’ll get defensively better too,” he stated. He mentioned that the transition moments during matches have been particularly troublesome for the team, resulting in quick turnovers that have cost them goals.
- Key points from the match:
- Mohun Bagan conceded two goals early.
- Sunil Chhetri scored, becoming the all-time top goal-scorer in ISL history.
- Molina highlighted struggles in both attack and defense.
Molina added, “If you can’t score, it’s impossible to win.” These words resonate loudly as the team failed to convert their chances during the game, which ultimately contributed to their defeat.
Bengaluru FC’s Dominance
Bengaluru FC controlled significant portions of the match, showcasing their ability to maintain possession effectively. Molina pointed out that their success lay in capitalizing on key moments. “We didn’t start badly, but they had the opportunity to take advantage, and they scored,” he explained.
This tactical control allowed Bengaluru FC to create more goal-scoring opportunities, further exacerbating the gap in performance between the two teams. “They controlled things better than us, especially in the first half,” said Molina, summarizing the implications of possession on the match outcome.
Upcoming Challenges for Mohun Bagan
The loss serves as a wake-up call for Mohun Bagan as they prepare for their next fixture on October 5, where they will face Mohammedan SC in the first “mini Kolkata derby” of the season at Salt Lake Stadium. The coach will undoubtedly focus on addressing the shortcomings revealed during the match against Bengaluru FC.
With the team’s focus shifting swiftly, Molina emphasized the need for tactical adjustments and a mindset change. “We are always looking for solutions,” he assured fans, expressing optimism despite the disappointing performance.
Conclusion
For Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the road ahead seems challenging but full of opportunities for growth. As coach Jose Molina works to correct the team’s trajectory, fans will be eager to see how he implements changes in their upcoming matches. Success hinges on their capacity to improve both their attacking prowess and defensive strategies. Only then can they hope to achieve their aspirations in the ongoing ISL season.
You can stay updated on Mohun Bagan’s journey in the Indian Super League by checking their pages on Facebook and Twitter. The league is really exciting, and there’s a lot to learn about it!
