Calcutta: With one eye on the Derby, Mohun Bagan are a cautious lot as they get ready to cross swords with Pune FC in Saturday’s I-League tie, here, at the Salt Lake Stadium.

For most Bagan fans, the contest versus Pune FC is a dress rehearsal for the match that counts, but coach Sanjay Sen reminds that a disappointing show against the table-toppers might make matters critical going into the East Bengal game, on Wednesday.

“Before the Derby, we need to win this match. It goes without saying that our preparations for the big game depend on how we perform tomorrow. 

“In that sense, the Pune FC match may be a bigger one for us,” Sen said after Saturday’s practice session at the Bagan ground.

Sen is spot-on with his analysis as Pune FC, under Karim Bencharifa, have got most things right so far in this I-League.

Unbeaten in the four matches, which includes a rocking 3-1 victory over defending champions Bengaluru FC, they have looked stronger every time they turned up. 

Addition of Portuguese medio Edgar Marcelinho and Montenegrin striker Darko Nikac have bolstered the squad, which already comprises the likes of Ryuji Sueoka, Ishfaq Ahmed, Thongkhosiem Haokip and Luciano Sabrosa. 

Although Luciano couldn’t play much in Calcutta due to injuries, there cannot be any complaints over his abilities as a defender. 

As for Sueoka, he’s been a vital cog for both Bagan and East Bengal. Ishfaq, too, has had his moments during his Bagan stint. But it’s Haokip who’s been a revelation for Pune FC.

No wonder then that the Bagan defenders need to be on their toes to keep the 21-year-old Manipur boy at bay. 

Besides, Pune FC have a coach in Karim, who has a fair enough idea of Bagan. But Sen, when told about Karim’s presence in the rival camp, shrugged off the factor.

He rather tried to zero in on the weaknesses in Pune FC defence, pointing out the number of goals the latter conceded in the four matches. Pune FC have taken in six goals as of now, something that does raise questions on their defence.

“He (Karim) won’t be a factor at all... Of course, our defenders will be up for a challenge as our opponents boast of a strong forward line. 

“But it remains to be seen how they cope with the attacks we come up with. They have conceded a few goals as far as I know,” the Bagan coach reminded.

Bagan are likely to start with Jeje Lalpekhlua and CS Sabeeth up front, with Sony Nordy again left to play an important role in the attacking midfield.

If Sony is in his elements, the Pune FC defence will surely feel the heat… Also, don't count the Haitian out when it comes to taking free-kicks. 

Bagan simply cannot ask for anything more if he gets them right.