East Bengal have qualified for the semifinals of the Kalinga Super Cup, defeating their rivals, Mohun Bagan SG by a 3-1 scoreline. The Red and Gold club extracted revenge for their Durand Cup 2023 final loss, putting in a spirited display against their Kolkata derby rivals to earn a well deserved win.
There was a glimmer of hope for Mohun Bagan SG when Hector Yuste pulled off an exceptional flick to open the scoring after a series of corners. However, Cleiton Silva’s powerful shot from the edge of the box levelled things up, putting them right back into the game.
East Bengal defeat Mohun Bagan SG 3-1 in Super Cup Kolkata derby
Right before half time, East Bengal fans had to go through a tense few minutes, with Hijazi Maher conceding a handball in the box, leading to a penalty. Dimitri Petratos scored from the spot, but the penalty had to be retaken as Mohun Bagan SG players had encroached the box before the shot was taken.
Petratos hit the post with his second effort, with the scoreline remaining 1-1 as the referee blew for half time.
Just as the pace of the game was settling down, Nandakumar Sekhar scored a tap in to make it 2-1. With around ten minutes to go, Cleiton Silva made it 3-1, capitalising on a failed save from Arsh Shaikh. And in the process, giving his side a massive advantage in the tie. Young attacker Vishnu had the chance to make it 4-1, but Shaikh was able to keep his shot out from a tight angle.
A spirited defensive display followed from Carles Cuadrat’s men as they fought through eight minutes of stoppage time to earn a statement Kolkata derby win.
