East Bengal have won the first Kolkata derby since 2019, defeating Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the first derby of the season. The game was decided by a 1-0 scoreline, with Nandhakumar Sekhar scoring the only goal of the game to help his side get the win.
The Red and Gold club looked much more positive than they have in recent memory, being able to conjure a number of attacks to test Vishal Kaith. However, they were unable to be productive in the final third during the first half.
East Bengal win Durand Cup 2023 Kolkata derby
At the end of the game, East Bengal only had two shots on target, with one of them being Nandhakumar’s goal. The new signing scored with his left foot after cutting inside from the right, and beating the keeper at the far post.
Carles Cuadrat has registered his first win as the coach of the Torch Bearers against their local rivals, who have surged ahead in recent times. It is a major achievement, and one that will live long in the memories of the fans.
Mohun Bagan had many more chances on goal, but some resilient goalkeeping from Prabhsukhan Gill, who joined the club this summer, helped them keep a clean sheet. Unlike last year, and the game against Bangladesh Army, East Bengal did not look like conceding even late in the game. They were able to manage time quite well, and picked up three vital points to keep their hopes alive in the 2023 Durand Cup.
If they win their final game against Punjab FC, they will qualify to the knockout stages as the winners of Group A.
