In a dramatic encounter at the AFC Challenge League 2024, East Bengal outplayed Lebanon’s Nejmeh SC with a gritty 3-2 win, securing a coveted spot in the tournament’s quarterfinals.
Despite recent inconsistent performances, East Bengal turned their fortunes around with an inspiring display that saw them finish as Group A winners on seven points, surpassing Nejmeh, who held six. This crucial victory showcased East Bengal’s resilience and composure, while Nejmeh now face an uncertain path, relying on results elsewhere to see if they advance as one of the best runners-up.
Early Lead Boosts East Bengal’s Confidence
East Bengal entered the match two points behind Nejmeh and needed a win to secure their quarterfinal place. The team got off to a perfect start, capitalizing on a defensive error to go ahead in just the eighth minute. Midfielder Madih Talal’s corner kick resulted in a lucky break when Nejmeh’s defender Baba Musah accidentally headed the ball into his own net, giving East Bengal a 1-0 lead. This early strike set the tone for the game, rattling Nejmeh’s defense and giving the Indian team a significant psychological edge.
East Bengal quickly took advantage of Nejmeh’s disoriented backline, doubling their lead just seven minutes later. Forward Dimitrios Diamantakos, who had been in fine form throughout the tournament, made it three goals in three matches as he converted a low cross from Mahesh Naorem with a precise finish. With the scoreline reading 2-0 in East Bengal’s favor by the 15th minute, Nejmeh found themselves facing an uphill battle.
Nejmeh SC’s Swift Response to Salvage Momentum
Although shell-shocked by East Bengal’s initial dominance, Nejmeh showed their fighting spirit by responding almost immediately. In the 18th minute, Rabih Ataya lofted a delicate lob into the penalty area, where Collins Opare pounced, stabbing the ball past East Bengal’s keeper, Prabsukhan Gill. This quick response rejuvenated the Lebanese side, igniting a comeback attempt.
By the closing stages of the first half, Nejmeh had gained the confidence needed to match East Bengal’s intensity. Their persistence paid off just before the halftime whistle when they were awarded a free-kick from a dangerous position. Midfielder Hussein Monzer stepped up and delivered a beautifully curled shot into the top corner, leaving Gill with no chance and leveling the game at 2-2.
Second Half Tension: Both Sides Approach with Caution
With everything on the line, both teams took a more calculated approach as the second half began. Nejmeh, aware that a loss could end their campaign, came close to taking the lead but failed to capitalize on several golden opportunities. In the 47th minute, Hassan Kourani missed a clear-cut chance, sending his header wide of an open goal, while further attempts from Mahdi Zein and Ataya were comfortably saved by Gill, who put on a commendable display under pressure.
East Bengal, keen to avoid any defensive lapses, focused on maintaining their structure while looking for an opportunity to strike back. Their patience would pay off in the final 15 minutes of the game.
Turning Point: Penalty Seals East Bengal’s Victory
The decisive moment came in the 77th minute when Madih Talal, who had been influential throughout the game, was fouled inside the box by Nejmeh’s defender Ali Ismail. Referee Songkran Bunmeekiart pointed to the penalty spot, providing East Bengal with a golden chance to retake the lead. Diamantakos, calm and confident, stepped up and slotted the penalty with precision, sending the keeper the wrong way to put East Bengal ahead 3-2.
Nejmeh’s Final Push Comes Up Short
Despite being down once more, Nejmeh did not back down and launched a spirited offensive in the closing minutes, determined to salvage at least a point. They pressed high, putting immense pressure on East Bengal’s defense, but the Indian side held firm, showing resilience that had been missing in their previous outings. East Bengal’s disciplined backline thwarted Nejmeh’s late attempts, with Gill pulling off crucial saves to preserve the narrow lead.
East Bengal’s Path Ahead: A Boost in Confidence
With this hard-fought win, East Bengal topped Group A, ending the group stage on a high note and sending a statement to their upcoming opponents. The victory not only secured their quarterfinal berth but also demonstrated a renewed resolve, suggesting they might have finally overcome the inconsistency that plagued them earlier in the season.
Nejmeh, despite a commendable performance, are left hoping that their six points will be enough to secure them a spot as one of the best runners-up from the West Zone. Their fate now rests in the hands of other results, while East Bengal marches forward with renewed momentum, ready to challenge in the tournament’s latter stages.
This thrilling 3-2 victory over Nejmeh has instilled newfound belief within East Bengal, who will look to carry this momentum forward as they aim for a deeper run in the AFC Challenge League.
When is East Bengal’s next match?
East Bengal’s next match is on Saturday, November 9 against Mohammedan SC from 7:30 pm (IST).
