The Kolkata Derby on Sunday will be the first Indian Super League meeting between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC this season, but not the first time the two clubs have faced each other in the 2025-2026 season.
The most recent Kolkata Derby took place in the group stage of the AIFF Super Cup on October 31, 2025, when Mohun Bagan and East Bengal played out a 0-0 draw. The result weighed heavily on East Bengal, who stayed alive in the tournament and later reached the final.
In ISL terms, however, the wait has been longer. The last league derby took place on January 11, 2025, when Mohun Bagan defeated East Bengal 1-0 at the Salt Lake Stadium. That was during the previous ISL season, making Sunday’s match the first derby of the ongoing league campaign.
This time the rivalry involves the title race. East Bengal and Mohun Bagan are level on 22 points from 11 matches, with East Bengal above its rival on goal difference. Both sides dropped points for the derby, with East Bengal at the hands of Punjab FC and Mohun Bagan playing out a goalless draw against Inter Kashi.
With just two rounds remaining, the derby could determine the destination of the title. East Bengal will look to parlay their strong season into a statement win, while Mohun Bagan will look to recover from their recent stutter and take control of the race.
Published on May 17, 2026
