East Bengal secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the AFC Challenge League 2024 with an impressive 3-2 victory over Nejmeh SC of Lebanon in their final group stage match. After suffering nine consecutive defeats since the Durand Cup quarterfinals, East Bengal turned the tide in the AFC Challenge League, emerging as group toppers with two wins and a draw. With this renewed momentum, they will now hope to carry their winning ways into the domestic league when they resume ISL play on November 9 against local rivals and fellow strugglers, Mohammedan SC.
Newly appointed head coach Oscar Bruzon has worked wonders with the team despite having only four days of full training with the squad. Bruzon’s tactical influence has been evident, as players have quickly regained form under his guidance in the AFC Challenge League group stage.
Against Nejmeh, a formidable side from Lebanon, East Bengal showcased a spirited display to claim a thrilling 3-2 victory. Although they led 2-0 within the first 15 minutes, East Bengal temporarily lost control as the game progressed, with Nejmeh clawing back to equalise before halftime. However, East Bengal showed resilience in the second half, a fighting spirit not seen in recent performances.
Credit is due to Bruzon for instilling a winning mentality in the team in such a short period. “We need to fight,” he said in the post-match press conference. “And, importantly, in games of this level, you always need to know how to suffer. It’s impossible to dominate for the full 90 minutes, but it’s essential to understand how to withstand tough moments and respond effectively to neutralise the opponent.”
In the first half, Mahesh Naorem was impressive on the right flank, behind most of East Bengal’s attacking forays. In contrast, Nandhakumar Sekar on the left was less effective. Bruzon made a tactical switch in the second half, bringing Madih Talal to the left flank, which proved effective. Madih relentlessly pressured Nejmeh’s defense and earned a crucial penalty in the 76th minute, setting up Dimitrios Diamantakos to seal the win.
Diamantakos has been a standout player in East Bengal’s AFC campaign, scoring four goals, including strikes in each of his last four games, scoring form that should relieve Bruzon. After struggling in his initial games this season, the Greek striker’s red-hot streak now bodes well for the red-and-gold brigade.
Another positive takeaway from this campaign is the team’s cohesion. Bruzon has emphasised team bonding since his arrival, and it showed in the AFC games. Against Nejmeh, the forwards were seen assisting defenders in the final minutes, underscoring the squad’s unity. “The game turned chaotic toward the end,” said Bruzon. “One slip could have undone weeks of hard work. I was on edge, making adjustments, urging our strikers to cover the central areas and forcing Nejmeh to the flanks. They didn’t look sharp on crosses, so protecting the middle paid off. And when we regained possession, we didn’t just clear the ball mindlessly. We countered with purpose.”
With Arkadag FK from Turkmenistan waiting in the Challenge League quarterfinals in March, 2025, East Bengal’s immediate focus shifts back to the ISL. A challenging task lies ahead, as they search for their first domestic victory this season. Bruzon believes the positive AFC performances will boost his squad mentally.
“The AFC final stage will take place in March-April,” he said. “Just having the chance to dream about competing internationally is a huge boost and additional motivation for us. Unfortunately, we have only a day or two to celebrate this. When we return to the domestic tournament, we’re aware of our situation. There’s no time to relax.”