East Bengal FC were defeated 3-2 at home by Altyn Asyr FC in the AFC Champions League 2 Prelims. As a result of the defeat, the Kalinga Super Cup winners will play in the AFC Challenge Cup while Altyn will play in the AFC Champions League 2 Group Stage.
The Red and Golds brigade opened the scoring through David Lalhansanga, with the newly signed striker scoring after a goal mouth scramble seven minutes into the game. However, the Turkmenistani side turned things around shortly after, turning in two quickfire goals as Prabhsukhan Gill was rooted to the spot on both occasions.
East Bengal FC defeated by Altyn Asyr FC in AFC Champions League 2 Prelims
FT | A brave fight from the boys! 🫂
— East Bengal FC (@eastbengal_fc) August 14, 2024
Let's put up a strong show on 18th! ✊#JoyEastBengal #ACLTwo #EBFCInAsia pic.twitter.com/xsnGBv3qK6
The visitors scored once again shortly after the restart to make it 3-1. However, East Bengal fought back to score again but were still behind by one.
Captain Cleiton Silva came off the bench to seemingly save the day once again. He had turned the ball into the back of the net before the referee disallowed the goal for a foul on Altyn Asyr goalkeeper Batyr Babayew.
In the end, the home side will be left to mull over their mistakes in spite of moments of brilliance from Madih Talal in midfield. Now, they turn their attention to the all-important Durand Cup derby on Sunday on the same ground against Mohun Bagan SG.
