East Bengal FC’s hopes of progressing in the AFC Challenge League came to an end on Wednesday as they suffered a 2-1 loss to FC Arkadag in the second leg of their quarterfinal clash.
Despite a spirited performance at the Arkadag Stadium, the Kolkata-based club bowed out with a 3-1 aggregate defeat to the Turkmenistan champions.
Ten-Man Red and Gold Brigade Struggle in Turkmenistan
Needing a comeback after their 1-0 first-leg loss at home, East Bengal FC got off to the perfect start. Raphael Messi Bouli found the net within the opening minute, converting from a well-rehearsed free-kick routine set up by Dimitrios Diamantakos. The early breakthrough reignited hopes of a turnaround, but the visitors failed to capitalize on further opportunities in the first half.
The Red and Gold Brigade created several promising chances, with Richard Celis coming close in the 17th minute. The Venezuelan forward, however, squandered a golden opportunity when a rebound off the post fell kindly to him, but he failed to find the back of the net.
Lalchungnunga’s Dismissal Alters the Game
Momentum shifted dramatically in the 33rd minute when East Bengal FC were reduced to ten men. Defender Lalchungnunga, who had already been booked in the 11th minute, received his second yellow card after a reckless challenge on an FC Arkadag forward. His sending-off left the visitors short-handed for the remainder of the contest.
Manager Oscar Bruzon’s decision to deploy Lalchungnunga at left-back, a role he has struggled with throughout the season, proved costly. The young defender, naturally a centre-back, struggled with pacey wingers and positional awareness. His red card marked his fourth dismissal of the season, raising concerns over East Bengal’s defensive depth.
Second-Half Collapse Ends East Bengal’s Hopes
Despite playing with a numerical disadvantage, East Bengal FC held onto their lead until the halftime break. However, FC Arkadag asserted control in the second half, dictating possession and gradually wearing down their opponents.
Celis had another opportunity to restore East Bengal’s advantage in the 52nd minute but failed to make clean contact with a well-placed cross from Diamantakos. As fatigue set in, defensive lapses proved costly for the visitors.
FC Arkadag equalized in the 87th minute through a penalty, awarded after Souvik Chakrabarti fouled Tirkishov inside the box. Annadurdiyev stepped up and calmly converted, slotting the ball into the bottom corner past Prabhsukhan Singh Gill.
In stoppage time, Arkadag sealed the victory as Annadurdiyev struck again, capitalizing on defensive errors to extend the lead. With the final whistle, East Bengal FC’s AFC Challenge League journey came to a disappointing conclusion.
What’s Next for East Bengal FC?
The elimination from the AFC Challenge League exposes key areas East Bengal FC must address moving forward. The lack of midfield creativity, a dependable left-back, and finishing efficiency in front of goal were evident issues throughout the campaign.
Bruzon’s tactical approach has shown promise, but adjustments are needed to ensure the team competes effectively in future tournaments. The summer transfer window presents an opportunity for reinforcements, particularly in defense, where a natural left-back is urgently required
