In the Group A encounter of the Durand Cup 2024, Indian Super League (ISL) side East Bengal FC secured their second consecutive victory, defeating a 10-man Downtown Heroes FC 3-1 at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Wednesday. This win propels East Bengal FC to the top of Group A with an unbeaten record of six points from two games.
The match commenced with East Bengal FC making a change, bringing in winger Vishnu to replace Jeakson Singh. Downtown Heroes FC’s coach Hilal Parray made two adjustments from his previous lineup, introducing Shameer and Iqlak in place of Basit and Calvin Baretto. As anticipated, the Red & Golds dominated the early proceedings, consistently pressing forward, while the Heroes remained resilient in defense and posed a threat on the counter-attacks.
The game’s dynamic shifted dramatically within a 13-minute span in the first half. The opening goal was a testament to individual brilliance. East Bengal FC earned a free-kick just outside the box, and French midfielder Madih Talal stepped up. His stunning strike wrong-footed Umaid, the Heroes’ goalkeeper, and the ball nestled into the back of the net, giving East Bengal FC a 1-0 lead.
However, Downtown Heroes FC’s persistence quickly paid off. Afreen Parray, instrumental in his team’s offensive efforts, capitalized on a free-kick. Positioned at the far post, he followed the delivery, and a clearance attempt by Rakib inadvertently struck Parray’s outstretched foot, causing the ball to ricochet past a surprised Prabhsukhan Gill into the goal, leveling the score.
East Bengal FC, determined to regain their lead, soon found an opportunity. Riyas, in an attempt to halt Vishnu’s run down the right flank, committed a late foul, leading the referee to award a penalty. Spanish midfield maestro Saul Crespo took the spot-kick with composure, sending the ball past Umaid and restoring East Bengal’s lead.
Read: Durand Cup 2024 Group A Preview – Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and more
The second half saw both teams intensifying their efforts to score. East Bengal FC, keen on extending their lead, and Downtown Heroes FC, eager to equalize, created numerous opportunities but were repeatedly thwarted by solid defensive plays and sharp goalkeeping.
Tensions escalated as the game progressed, culminating in the 80th minute when Zahid of Downtown Heroes FC was shown a red card for unsporting behavior, leaving his team to play the remainder of the match with ten men. Despite this disadvantage, the Heroes continued to fight valiantly.
In the dying moments of the game, East Bengal FC sealed their victory. A defensive lapse by Zubair allowed young substitute Jesin TK to intercept the ball. Demonstrating remarkable skill, Jesin turned Zubair twice before unleashing a powerful left-footed shot from just inside the box. The strike left Umaid with no chance, securing a 3-1 win for the Red & Golds.
This triumph not only marked East Bengal FC’s second win in the tournament but also positioned them as the front-runners in Group A, boasting a 100% record. Downtown Heroes FC, having completed their group stage matches with one win and two losses, remained on three points, following their earlier victory over the Indian Air Force.
The win sets the stage for East Bengal’s highly anticipated final group game against arch-rivals and defending champions Mohun Bagan on August 18, 2024. With this victory, East Bengal enters the derby clash in the best possible frame of mind, eager to continue their winning streak and solidify their position in the tournament.
East Bengal FC’s tactical adjustments and strategic gameplay were evident throughout the match. The decision to introduce Vishnu added a new dimension to their attack, while Crespo’s calm and composed penalty conversion exemplified the team’s experience and poise under pressure.
Downtown Heroes FC, despite the defeat, showcased resilience and determination, particularly in their defensive efforts and counter-attacks. Afreen Parray’s equalizing goal highlighted their potential and fighting spirit, which was on display throughout the game.
Overall, the match was a good display of football, with both teams providing the supporters at the Kishore Bharati with enough excitement. East Bengal’s victory was a testament to the good work they have done so far in the transfer market, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the group stage of the Durand Cup 2024.
Follow IFTWC for more updates on Indian football.
