Durand Cup: East Bengal reignites derby glory with stunning win over Mohun Bagan SG

by Chittu Shetty August 12, 2023

In a gripping encounter that set the stage ablaze at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, East Bengal FC emerged victorious in a hard-fought Kolkata Derby against Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Nandhakumar Sekar’s 60th-minute strike proved to be the decisive moment, sealing East Bengal’s first derby win in four years in the pulsating Durand Cup showdown on Saturday.

The first half remained goalless, yet teeming with intensity as both teams carved out opportunities. Mohun Bagan SG’s Armando Sadiku kicked off the action with a long-range attempt in the second minute, narrowly missing the mark. Jordan Elsey of East Bengal FC responded, connecting Harmanjot Khabra’s free-kick with a header that Vishal Kaith thwarted.

Throughout the opening half, both goalkeepers remained vigilant, with chances coming thick and fast for both Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC.

After the break, Nandhakumar Sekar stepped into the spotlight, expertly finishing a counter-attack for East Bengal FC. Sekar’s darting run culminated in a brilliant shot from the edge of the box, leaving Vishal Kaith helpless as the ball nestled into the far corner.

Despite conceding, Mohun Bagan SG rallied, introducing Dimitri Petratos and Jason Cummings to spark an equalizer. Though they gained control, they struggled to find the target in the final third.

A pivotal moment for Mohun Bagan SG arrived in the 80th minute when Anirudh Thapa’s pass deflected into Cummings’ path. The Australian striker, however, faltered from a tight angle, squandering a golden opportunity.

With Mohun Bagan SG already securing their spot in the knockout stages, East Bengal FC aims to keep their qualification hopes alive. Their upcoming clash against Punjab FC in the final group stage fixture looms large as a critical decider.

East Bengal FC’s victory not only rejuvenates their Derby dominance but also adds a thrilling chapter to the storied rivalry, leaving fans eager for more football fervor in the enthralling Durand Cup campaign.

Full Time: East Bengal FC (Nandkumar Sekar 60′) 1 – 0 Mohun Bagan Super Giant

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