Bhaichung Bhutia: Mohun Bagan will retain I-league title this year

ByArun S Kaimal,SportsCafe Editor

04/04/2016

East Bengal and Mohun Bagan legend Bhaichung Bhutia believes Bagan will retain the I-league crown despite their derby loss on Saturday. Bhutia believes that Bagan have enough firepower in them to win the trophy and hold an advantage in the three-way title race including Bengaluru and East Bengal.

After what was a deflating 2-1 loss to East Bengal on Saturday night, Mohun Bagan find themselves in a precarious position on the I-league table, with Bengaluru FC and East Bengal breathing down their necks. Bhutia, however, believes the Mariners will win the crown nevertheless.

“Personally I believe Mohun Bagan look convincing to retain the championship. The way they played in the first half hour was impressive. They were good in patches in the second half,” commented the 39-year old.

But Bhutia was disappointed with the derby on the whole. “Overall the match did not live up to its expectations. East Bengal were a bit lucky on the night in a close contest, especially the last penalty miss. Both teams played average although the result is going to help East Bengal in the title race. If it would have been a draw East Bengal would have been out of the picture for the title. Mohun Bagan are still in an advantageous position so at the moment they look the favourites. Sony’s absence was a big factor as well,” added Bhutia.

The game also saw a dramatic injury-time penalty going Bagan’s way. But Jeje Lapekhlua could not convert from the spot, and that proved to be crucial at the end.

“I think that is life and he should carry on. I have missed a heck lot of penalties myself,” suggested Bhaichung.