Can Mohun Bagan redeem themselves after a disappointing start to their AFC Champions League campaign, or is this just the beginning of a bigger downfall for Indian clubs in Asia?
Table of Contents
- Match Overview
- First Half Struggles
- Second Half Substitutions
- Foreign Player Performance
- Future Implications
- Conclusion
Match Overview
The AFC Champions League opener between Mohun Bagan and Ravan Sa Kluob was meant to be a comfortable win for the Indian club. Expectations were high, given their impressive signings and a well-rounded squad. However, the 1-1 draw left fans in disbelief, particularly considering Ravan’s perceived status as the weakest team in the group. What went wrong? And more importantly, what does this mean for Mohun Bagan's chances of advancing in the tournament?
First Half Struggles
From the outset, it was clear that Mohun Bagan’s game plan was flawed. Coach Juan Ferrando Molina’s starting lineup raised concerns, with several fans questioning his tactical choices. Their strategy revolved around long balls and back passes, which never troubled Ravan’s defense. While the team maintained possession in the first half, it was possession without purpose. They failed to create any meaningful attacks, with zero shots on target—a clear sign of their lack of creativity and penetration.
Ravan, on the other hand, took advantage of Mohun Bagan’s sluggishness. They were quick to press and create counter-attacks, leaving the Indian team vulnerable. The absence of a strong central midfielder, akin to last season’s star Kaku, was glaringly obvious. While Mohun Bagan boasted big names in attack, such as Jason Cummings and Hugo Boumous, their midfield lacked control, leaving their strikers isolated.
Second Half Substitutions
The turning point of the match came in the second half with key substitutions. Molina brought on Greg Stewart, Liston Colaco, and Abhishek Suryavanshi, and the difference was palpable. Mohun Bagan began playing with more intensity and creativity. Stewart, in particular, showed why he’s considered one of the best players in the Indian Super League (ISL). His vision and passing led to two clear chances, but unfortunately, the forwards failed to convert.
Despite the tactical improvements, Mohun Bagan’s inability to capitalize on their chances cost them dearly. The game ended in a draw, leaving them with just one point instead of the three they desperately needed. Stewart’s late introduction raised eyebrows, with many fans and analysts questioning why such a talented player wasn’t starting the match.
Foreign Player Performance
Mohun Bagan's reliance on foreign signings has been a topic of debate among fans and pundits. While the club has splurged on high-profile foreign players like Cummings and Boumous, their performances in this match left much to be desired. Cummings, in particular, was a shadow of his former self, showing little urgency or hunger in front of goal. His missed opportunity—a lackadaisical chip that sailed wide—was emblematic of the team’s overall lack of sharpness.
Additionally, Boumous struggled to make an impact, often drifting out of position and failing to link up effectively with the midfield. It’s a stark contrast to their performances in the ISL, where they have regularly dominated opponents. The question now arises: Are Mohun Bagan’s foreign players too comfortable in domestic competitions, only to be exposed at the continental level?
Future Implications
This draw could have serious repercussions for Mohun Bagan’s AFC Champions League campaign. With tougher fixtures against Al Wakrah and Tractor FC on the horizon, the Indian club needed to secure maximum points against the group’s perceived weakest team. Al Wakrah and Tractor are expected to provide much sterner tests, with both clubs known for their physicality and tactical discipline.
If Mohun Bagan cannot address their midfield deficiencies and improve their finishing, they risk an early exit from the tournament. Moreover, their poor form at home doesn’t bode well for the more challenging away fixtures to come. The stakes couldn’t be higher—fans will be hoping for a swift turnaround in form, but the signs are worrying.
Conclusion
While the draw against Ravan Sa Kluob isn’t a disaster, it feels like a missed opportunity for Mohun Bagan. Their lackluster first-half performance, combined with the underwhelming displays from their foreign stars, has left fans frustrated. To progress in the AFC Champions League, they must find a way to balance possession with incisiveness, and their foreign signings need to step up on the continental stage.
The upcoming matches against Al Wakrah and Tractor FC will be defining moments in their campaign. Can Mohun Bagan learn from their mistakes and deliver the performances needed to keep their AFC Champions League dreams alive? Or will this be another year of disappointment for Indian football fans?
FAQs
- What went wrong for Mohun Bagan in their AFC Champions League opener? The team struggled with poor tactical choices in the first half, a lack of midfield control, and missed scoring opportunities.
- Why were Mohun Bagan’s foreign players criticized? Key foreign signings like Jason Cummings and Hugo Boumous underperformed, showing a lack of urgency and sharpness in crucial moments.
- What does this result mean for Mohun Bagan’s chances in the tournament? The draw puts them in a precarious position, with tougher matches against Al Wakrah and Tractor FC coming up.
- How can Mohun Bagan improve in their next matches? They need to strengthen their midfield, convert their chances, and ensure their foreign players are performing at their best.
