East Bengal ended a 22-year Durand Cup wait with a stunning 4-1 win over Mohun Bagan. Here are five tactical strategies that helped Antonio Habas’ side dominate the historic Kolkata derby final.
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The low block and space-closing strategy
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Midfield control and quick transition
The Red and Gold brigade didn’t just sit back and defend. Their plan to quickly move from midfield to attack was another masterstroke. Mohammed Rashid’s leadership and Dani Ramirez’s creativity gave their attacks serious pace. They won the ball in defence and moved it forward so fast that Mohun Bagan had no time to regroup. This quick transition football made East Bengal look deadly in the first half.
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Sharpness in attack upon getting chances
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Mental preparation for the big match
Finally, it all came down to mental strength. East Bengal was under huge pressure, playing a Kolkata Derby with the goal of winning the Durand Cup after 22 years. Plus, their semi-final match against SC Delhi had gone to a tense penalty shootout. But the team held its nerve and carried that confidence into the final. Reports also said that coach Habas gave the players proper rest to beat fatigue. As a result, East Bengal looked much more prepared, both physically and mentally.
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